IMAGE  EVALUATION 
TEST  TARGET  (MT  3) 


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Pnotograpiiic 

Sciences 
Corpordtion 


23  WIST  MAIN  STRUT 

WS«STER,N.Y.  MSSO 

(716)  173-4303 


A. 


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CIHM/ICMH 

Microfiche 

Series. 


CIHM/ICMH 
Collection  de 
microfiches. 


Canadian  Institute  for  Historical  IVIicroreproductions  /  Institut  canadion  de  rnicroreproductions  historiquot 


'^ 


Technical  and  Bibliographic  Notes/Notes  techniques  et  bibliographiques 


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D 


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trations/ 
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ReliA  avec  d'autres  documents 


I      I    Coloured  plates  and/or  illustrations/ 
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n 


n 


n 


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10X     ^ 14X  18X  22X 


»X 


30X 


y\ 


12X 


16X 


20X 


24X 


28X 


32X 


ire 

details 
les  du 
modifier 
ler  une 
filmage 


es 


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first  page  with  a  printed  or  illustrated  impres- 
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or  Illustrated  impression. 


The  last  recorded  frame  on  each  microfiche 
shall  contain  the  symbol  —»•(  meaning  "CON- 
TINUED"), or  the  symbol  V  (meaning  "END"), 
whichever  applies. 

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beginning  in  the  upper  ieft  hand  corner,  left  to 
right  and  top  to  bottom,  as  many  frames  as 
required.  The  following  diagrams  illustrate  the 
method: 


L'exemplakre  fllm6  fut  reproduit  grAce  k  la 
gAnirositA  de: 

Bibiiothique  nationale  du  Canada 


Les  Images  suivantes  ont  tt^  reprodultes  avec  le 
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de  la  nettetd  de  i'exemplaire  film«,  et  an 
conformity  avec  les  conditions  du  contrat  de 
filmage. 

Les  exemplalres  origlnaux  dont  la  couverture  en 
paplar  est  imprimte  sont  filmte  en  commenpant 
par  le  premier  plat  et  en  terminant  soit  par  la 
oernlAre  page  qui  comporte  une  empreinte 
d'impression  ou  d'illustration,  soit  par  le  second 
plat,  selon  le  cas.  Tous  les  autres  exsmplaires 
origlnaux  sont  film6s  en  commen^ant  par  la 
premiere  page  qui  comporte  une  empreinte 
d'impression  ou  d'illustration  et  en  terminant  par 
la  derniAre  page  qui  comporte  une  telle 
empreinte. 

Un  des  symboies  suivants  apparaitra  sur  la 
derniire  image  de  cheque  microfiche,  selon  le 
cas:  le  symbols  —^  signifie  "A  S'MVRE",  le 
symbols  y  signifie  "FIN". 

Les  c&rtes,  planches,  tableaux,  etc.,  peuvent  Atre 
filmAs  A  des  taux  de  reduction  diffirents. 
Lorsque  le  document  est  trop  grand  pour  Atre 
rep.oduit  en  un  seul  clichA,  ii  est  fiimA  A  partir 
de  I'angle  supArieur  gauche,  de  gauche  A  droite, 
et  de  haut  en  bas,  en  prenant  le  nombre 
d'images  nAcessaire.  Les  diagrammes  suivants 
iliustrent  la  mAthode. 


errata 
to 


pelure, 
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D 


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3 

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5 

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ME 


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NUMBE 

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then  I  \ 
lies.— E 


PUB 


A    HISTORY 


OF   THE 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL  CHURCH 


BY  NATHAN   BANGS,  D.  D. 


VOLUME  III. 
FllOM   THE    YEAR   1816  TO   THE   YEAR   1828. 


nJ'Ci^^xS  r  '^"^  *'"*'•  ^  ^'''''"    *"^  '''y  tabernacles,  O  Israel!- 


PUBLISHED  BY  OARLTON  &  PORTEB. 

200  UULBKRRY-STBEBT. 
1867. 


Bx^235 


«0    r-- 


2604^8 


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V.  •J'^ 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress,  in  the  yeiir  1840,  by 
T.  Mason  &  G.  Lane,  in  the  clerk's  office  of  the  Southern 
District  of  New-York. 


NOTICE    TO   THE    READER. 


The  favorable  manner  in  which  the  first  and  second 
volumes  of  this  History  have  been  received,  induces  me 
to  add  a  third,  in  the  hope  that  it  may  increase  the 
stock  of  useful  information  in  reference  to  the  work 
which  God  has  wrought  m  this  country  by  the  instru- 
mentality of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church. 

In  the  conclusion  of.  the  second  volume  it  was  le- 
marked,  that  it  was  my  intention,  when  the  History 
was  commenced,  to  bring  it  down  near  to  the  present 
tmie,  in  two  volumes ;  but,  as  I  proceeded  in  the  work 
It  was  found  impracticable  to  fulfil  this  intention,  with- 
out such  an  abridgment  as  would  either  compel  me  to 
omit  some  important  transactions  and  edifying  incidents 
or  so  to  shorten  them  as  to  render  them  uninstructive 
and  uninteresting.  I  was  therefore  compelled,  contrary 
to  my  first  design,  to  close  the  second  volume  in  the 
year  1816. 

That  this  alteration  in  the  plan  at  first  contemplated 
has  been  generally  approved  of,  I  have  evidence  from 
numerous  testimonies.  Indeed,  the  greatest  fault  I 
have  heard,  from  those  who  are  disposed  to  judge  chari- 
tably of  my  work,  has  been,  that  it  is  not  sufficiently 
particular,  or  that  its  details  are  not  as  numerous  as  is 
desired.  This  defect,  however,  if  it  be  one,  I  am  una- 
ble  to  remedy,  as  I  have,  with  but  few  exceptions, 
wrought  up  all  the  materials  within  my  reach,  unless  I 

3 


4  A    HISTORY    OF    THK 

were  injudiciously  to  encumber  the  volume  with  irrele- 
vant matter. 

The  present  volume,  however,  I  consider  rich  in 
matter,  particularly  in  relation  to  the  doings  of  the  Gene- 
ral Conference,  and  to  the  enlargement  of  our  work  by 
means  of  our  Missionary  Society,  and  other  auxiliary 
appliances.  And  I  have  endeavored  to  give  such  a  de- 
tailed account  of  the  origin,  character,  and  progress  of 
this  society  as  will,  if  the  history  be  continued  on  the 
same  plan,  supersede  the  necessity  of  a  separate  history 
of  that  institution.  Indeed,  this  society,  together  with 
the  tract,  Sunday  school,  and  education  causes,  is  so  in- 
terwoven in  our  general  plan  of  operations,  that  a  history 
of  our  Church  would  be  quite  imperfect  which  did  not 
embrace  a  narrative  of  these  things. 

It  being  desirable  to  have  the  alphabetical  list  of 
preachers  unbroken,  it  has  been  thought  advisable  to 
t.ansfer  that  list  from  the  third  to  the  fourth  volume ; 
and  the  more  so  as  that  volume  is  sufficiently  large 
without  it,  containing,  as  it  does,  upward  of  four  hun- 
dred pages. 

In  adverting  to  this  list  I  consider  it  proper  to  men- 
tion the  following  facts,  as  furnishing  good  reasons  for 
an  apology  for  any  errors  which  have  been  or  may  be 
detected,  in  the  spelling  of  names,  dates,  or  otherwise. 

1.  In  regard  to  the  orthography  of  proper  names  I 
have  found  insuperable  difficulties.  The  same  name  I 
have  in  frequent  instances  found  differently  spelled  in 
the  printed  Minutes  even  for  the  same  year — one  way 
perhaps  when  admitted  on  trial,  and  another  in  the  sta- 
tions— and  then  the  next  year  differently  from  either 
of  the  two.  In  this  confusion  who  is  to  decide  which  is 
right  ?  It  is  true  that  some  names,  particularly  those 
3 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  -  '# 

found  in  the  sacred  Scriptures— though  these  are  by  no 
means  uniformly  alike  in  their  orthography  in  the  Old 
and  New  Testaments,  owing  to  the  different  usages  of 
the  Hebrew  and  Greek  languages— and  in  the  Greek 
and  Latin  classics,  have  a  fixed  orthography ;  but  in 
most  insf-ances  proper  names  are  spelled  as  whim  or 
fancy  would  dictate,  some  families,  even  of  their  own 
accord,  either  dropping  or  adding  a  letter  or  letters.    And 
this  confusion  and  difficulty  exist  in  a  peculiar  degree 
in  the  United  States,  made  up,  as  the  citizens  are,  from 
almost  every  nation  under  heaven,  and  therefore  having 
names,  the  orthography  of  which  is  pecuhar  to  the  seve- 
ral nations  from  which  they  came,  Qf  to  the  ancestors 
from  whom  they  have  descended.    If  any  one  can  un- 
ravel this  tangled  skain,  and  teach  us  how  to  spell  every 
proper  name  correctly,  he  will  perform  a  task  for  which 
I  confess  myself  inadequate.     Or  if  any  one  will  take 
the  Minutes  of  our  conferences  and  decide  which  of  the 
varying  orthographies  of  some  names  is  the  correct  one, 
he  shall  receive  my  thanks,  and  will  merit  the  thanks 
of  all  concerned.     But  as  the  secretaries  of  the  annual 
conferences,  editors,  and  printers  were  not  able  to  con- 
trol this  perplexing  business  at  the  times  the  Minutes 
were  prepared  and  printed,  I  hope  to  be  pardoned  if  I 
should  fail  to  make  every  thing  of  this  sort  entirely  ac- 
curate. 

2.  But  this  is  by  no  means  the  most  serious  difficulty 
which  1  have  had  to  encounter.  In  several  instances  \ 
have  found  preachers  returned  located,  and  in  three  in- 
stances expelled*  who  were  never  admitted  into  full 

*  In  one  instance  I  found  a  preacher  returned  located  and 
expelled  in  the  same  year !  In  another,  located  in  one  year 
and  exp^llei  the  next. 

8 


6 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


connection.  Such  names  I  have  generally  omilted  al- 
together, as  I  have  taken  no  account  of  mere  probation- 
ers in  the  traveling  ministry. 

3.  In  numerous  instances  I  have  found  that  certain 
preachers  were  located,  readmitted,  and  then  located 
again,  twice^  thrice,  and  even  four  times.  In  such 
cases  I  have,  as  far  as  I  could  ascertain  the  fact,  fixed 
the  date  of  their  location  the  last  time  mentioned,  with 
a  view  to  give  them  credit  for  at  least  all  the  years  they 
may  have  traveled.  On  this  account,  those  who  may 
compare  the  list  in  this  volume — which  has  been  tho- 
roughly revised — with  the  one  appended  to  the  second, 
will  find  that  several  who  were  recorded  as  located  be- 
fore, or  in  the  year  1816,  are  herein  returned  as  having 
located  at  a  later  date,  because  they  re-entered  the  tra- 
veling ministry,  continued  for  a  shorter  or  longer  time, 
and  then  located  again. 

4.  In  a  few  instdlnces  persons  have  been  expelled  by 
an  annual  conference,  and  afterward,  on  an  appeal, 
restored  by  the  General  Conference.  This  may  have  led 
to  some  errors  in  these  returns,  though  I  trust  but  few. 

5.  In  some  instances  preachers  were  continued  on 
trial  for  more  than  two  years ;  and  not  adverting  to  that 
fact  while  preparing  the  list  for  the  former  volume,  and 
taking  their  names  as  they  stand  recorded  in  answer  to 
the  question,  "  Who  are  admitted  into  full  connection  ?" 
such  were  returned  as  received  a  year  later  than  was 
actually  the  case.  So  far  as  this  fact  has  been  ascer- 
tained, the  correction  has  been  made  in  the  present  list. 

6.  In  many  cases  it  has  been  difficult  to  ascertain  the 
precise  year  in  which  a  preacher  died.  In  the  body  of 
the  History  I  have,  in  recording  deaths,  generally  fol- 
lowed the  Older  of  the  Mjnutes,  aijd  FecQjrded  them  as 

3 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  7 

having  died  in  the  course  of  the  preceding  year ;  but  in 
the  alphabetical  list  I  have  endeavored  to  asceitain  the 
year  in  which  each  preacher  died.  As,  however,  some 
of  the  records  are  indefinite  in  this  particular,  I  have 
been  guided  by  the  most  probable  conjecture.  There 
are,  however,  I  believe,  but  few  cases  of  this  character. 

When  the  reader  duly  considers  these  perplexing  dis- 
crepances and  defects,  he  will  be  prepared  to  make  some 
allowance  for  the  unavoidable  errors  which  grow  out  of 
them ;  and  the  more  so,  when  he  considers  that  this 
History  has  been  written  by  a  hand  equally  Tallible  as 
those  which  prepared  the  authorized  records. 

Some  unintentional  omissions  of  names  in  the  former 
volume  are  supplied  in  this ;  and  if  others  should  be  de- 
tected, as  doubtless  they  will  be,  the  correction  will  be 
made  With  the  more  pleasure,  because  it  will  add  to  the 
perfection  of  the  work.  The  reader  may  rest  assured, 
however,  that  no  pains  have  been  spared  by  either  the 
author  or  printer  to  make  every  thing  as  accurate  as 
possible;  and  hence,  if  errors  are  detected,  he  must 
attribute  them  to  a  want  of  ability,  under  the  circum- 
stances, to  avoid  them. 

To  God,  who  alone  is  absolutely  perfect,  but  whose 
boundless  mercy  inclines  him  to  pardon  the  aberrations 
of  his  creatures,  for  the  sake  of  his  Son  Jesus  Christ,  be 
ascribed  the  honor  and  glory  for  what  he  has  done  for 
this  branch  of  his  Church. 

N.  Bangs. 
New'Yorky  Jan.  1,  1840. 


From 

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A  HISTORY 

or  THB 

METHODIST  EPISCOPAL  CHURCH. 


BOOK   V. 

CHAPTER  III. 

From  ih«  3)eath  of  Bishop  Asbuiy  to  the  Close  of  the  General  Confer- 

ence  of  1816. 

In  th«  dosing  part  of  the  last  volume  an  incidental 
allusion  was  made  to  a  controversy  which  arose  in  this 
country  between  us  and  other  denominations,  but  more 
particularly  the  Calvinists. 

It  is  well  known  that  not  long  after  Mr.  Wesley  be- 
gan his  career  of  usefulness,  he  was  joined  by  Mr. 
Whitefield,  whose  stirring  eloquence  in  the  pulpits  of  the 
Establishment  created  a  great  sensation  among  both 
clergy  and  people,  and  drew  such  multitudes  to  hear 
hin^,  that  he  ventured,  in  imitation  of  his  Divine  Mas- 
ter, into  the  fields,  where  he  proclaimed  the  glad  tidings 
of  salvation  to  listening  thousands.  Wesley  soon  fol- 
lowed the  example,  and  great  was  the  effect  produced 
by  their  joint  exertions  in  this  novel  way  of  preaching 
Christ  and  him  crucified. 

Unhappily,  to  human  appearance,  a  difference  arose 
between  these  two  great  and  good  men.  Whitefield, 
being  much  opposed  and  persecuted  by  the  lukewarm 
clergy  of  the  Establishment,  graduaUy  contracted  an  in- 

3 


10 


A   HISTORY   OF   THE 


coming 


timacy  with  the  Dissenters,  and,  on  1 

America,  became  acquainted  with  tlie  pic^„  .. ^„^- 

ed  Edwards— afterward  president  of  Princeton  College 
—-then  setded  at  Northampton,  Massachusetts.    Find- 
ing among  these  people  more  of  the  appearance  of  evan- 
gelical doctrine,  and   of  experimental   and   practical 
piety,  than  with  those  of  the  Establishment,  Whitefield 
soon  drank  in  their  doctrine  of  predestination  and  its 
correlatives,  eternal  election  and  final  perseverance.  This 
led  to  a  controversy  between  him  and  Wesley,  which 
eventuated  in  a  partial  separation — a.  separation  in 
their  respective  fields  of  labor  and  sentimrnt,  though 
not  m  "^leart  and  affection— for  they  always  esteemed 
each  ot  her  highly  as  devoted  Christian  ministers.    This 
took  place  in  the  year  1741,  Whitefield  rallying  under 
the  banner  of  Calvinistio  decrees,  patronized  by  Lady 
Huntingdon,  and  supported  by  many  of  what  were 
called  tlie  evangelical  clergy  of  the  Establishment  in 
England,  and  by  the  most  zealous  of  the  Presbyterians 
ard  Congregationalists  of  America— while  v\'"esley  and 
his  brother  Charlen  hoisted  the  flag  of  Arminius,  fortify- 
ing themselves  with  the  standards  of  their  own  church, 
and  defending  themseives  by  direct  appeals  to  the  Holy 
Scriptures  and  the  dictates  of  common  sense  and  sound 
reason.     This  brought  on  a  protracted  warfare  between 
the  parties,  both  from  the  pulpit  and  the  press,  during 
which  the  doctrines  and  measures  of  Mr.  Wesley  passed 
through  the  severest  ordeal  of  critical  investigation, 
and   most  heart-searching   appeals  to   Scripture  and 
reason. 

This  brought  the  vicar  of  Madeley,  the  pious  r.nd 
peace-loving  Fletcher,  from  his  retreat  in  the  obscure 
l)afiQh  where  he  had  chosen  to  labor  for  the  salvation 
3 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


11 


of  souls,  and  obliged  him,  quite  contrary  to  his  pacific 
disposition,  to  buckle  on  the  armor  of  a  polemic,  in 
which  he  acquitted  himself  with  singular  success.  He, 
indeed,  seemed  to  be  provideiitially  raised  up  for  the 
crisis,  and  he  entered  the  arena  of  controversy  fully  fur- 
nished by  sound  and  various  learning,  by  deep  and 
genuine  piety,  by  meekness,  patience,  and  love,  and  by 
a  power  of  comprehension  and  nice  discrimination, 
which  peculiarly  fitted  him  to  sustain  with  dignity, 
firmness,  and  success,  the  high  and  holy  cause  he  was 
called  to  defend.  It  is  not  saying  too  much  to  affirm, 
that  he  vanquished  all  his  antagonists,  cleared  the  field 
of  controversy  of  the  thorns  and  briers  of  error,  and  at 
the  same  time  maintained  the  spirit  and  temper  of  the 
Christian,  while  he  powerfully  wielded  the  sword  of 
truth,  and  brought  the  warfare  to  a  successful  issue,  sus- 
taining through  the  entire  conflict  the  character  of  an 
able  divine,  a  sound  moralist,  a  consistent  minister  of 
Jesus  Christ,  and  an  acute  and  conclusive  reasoner. 

Though  assailed  often  by  bitter  railing  and  biting 
sarcasm,  he  maintained  the  gravity  of  the  minister  of 
Christ  and  the  meekness  of  the  consistent  Christian. 
If  at  any  time  he  turned  the  weapon  of  irony  upon  his 
antagonists — as  he  sometimes  did  with  most  pwerful 
ofiect — it  was  divested  of  the  venom  of  bitterness,  and 
dipped  in  the  sweet  waters  ol  brotherly  love.  His  mas- 
terly defences  of  Wesleyan  theology  remain  unanswer- 
ed, and,  it  ia  believed,  unanswerable,  and  will  long  re- 
main as  a  monument  of  his  piety,  cf  his  devotion  to  the 
cause  of  truth,  as  well  as  a  lofty  beacon  to  apprize  fu- 
ture mariners  who  may  embark  upon  the  rough  sea  of 
controversy,  of  the  dangerous  shoals  and  rocks  upon 
which  so  many  heedless  men  have  been  wrecked — 


12 


A    HISTORY   OF  THE 


at  the  same  time  distinctly  and  accurately  marking 
the  channel  of  truth  through  which  the  spiritual  ark 
may  be  safely  guided  to  the  harbor  of  eternal  repose. 

Armed  with  the  panoply  thus  furnished  them,  the 
Wesleyan  missionaries  who  first  visited  our  shores  were 
prepared  to  promulgate  and  defend  the  doctrines  and  to 
enforce  the  discipline  of  their  founder.    As  before  said, 
however,  they  mainly  insisted  on  experimental  and 
practical  godliness,  urging  upon  all,  high  and  low,  rich 
and  poor,  the  necessity  of  a  change  of  heart,  such  a 
change  as  should  be  productive  of  a  reformation  of  life 
and  conduct,  in  order  to  insure  everlasting  salvation. 
Instead  of  exhausting  their  strength  in  controversial 
preaching  on  those  debatable  points  about  which  they  dif- 
fered from  Cah'inists,  Unitarians,  Arians,  and  Universal- 
ists,  they  generally  contented  themselves  with  a  plain 
and  unvarnished  statement  of  their  doctrinal  views,  with 
urging  upon  the  people  experimental  and  practical  reli> 
gion,  and  with  defending  themselves  when  assailed  by 
others.     This  defence,  however,  often  became  necessa- 
ry, more  especially  in  the  northern  and  eastern  states, 
where  the  people  were  more  accustomed  to  a  critical  ex- 
amination of  doctrinal  points,  and  questions  of  doubtful 
disputation. 

For  some  time,  however,  the  number  of  Method- 
ists in  this  country  was  so  inconsiderable,  that  other 
denominations  affected  to  treat  them  with  silent  con- 
tempt ;  and  if  occasionally  they  condescended  to  notice 
them  at  all,  it  was  more  in  the  way  of  caricature  and 
misrepresentation  than  by  sober  argument,  or  an  at- 
tempt at  a  fair  and  direct  refutation  of  their  doctrine  and 
usages.  The  High  Churchman  would  sneer,  at  our 
ordination,  and,  wrapping  himself  in  the  cloak  of  apos- 


ff 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


13 


tolical  succession,  with  an  air  of  assumed  dignity,  prate 
about  "  John  Wesley's  lay  bishops,"  as  though  these 
jokes  were  sufficient  to  put  us  out  of  countenance. 
Others,  panoplied  in  the  stern  decrees  of  Calvin,  and 
priding  themselves  in  their  exclusive  orthodoxy,  would 
tantalize  us  with  "salvation  by  the  merit  of  good  workSy 
the  omnipotency  of  free-will,  and  the  unsoundness  of 
our  doctrine  of  justification ;"  while  some  would  smile  at 
"  baby  baptism,"  as  an  affront  offered  to  the  Deity,  and 
an  innovation  upon  apostolic  usage.  These  all  united 
to  ridicule  our  itinerant  plan  of  preaching  the  gospel,  as 
a  novelty  which  must  soon  come  to  an  end ;  and,  to 
give  point  and  poignancy  to  their  sarcasms,  our  itinerant 
preachers  were  called  "  circuit-riders,^^  as  if  to  ride  a 
circuit  were  their  distinguishing  badge,  not  caring  to 
inform  the  people  whether  as  preachers  or  itinerant  phy- 
sicians. 

These  reproaches  were  borne  with  as  much  patience 
as  possible,  and  our  ministers  continued  to  deserve  them 
more  and  more  by  persevering  in  their  peculiar  work, 
and  by  endeavoring  to  prove  their  falsitj^  by  a  faithful 
exhibition  of  the  true  doctrines  of  their  church,  and  also 
to  refute  the  slanderous  representations  of  their  mode  of 
life  and  manner  of  preaching,  by  the  exemplariness  of 
their  conduct.  To  those  who  becan.e  intimately  ac- 
quainted with  them  from  personal  intercourse,  they 
commended  themselves  for  the  depth  and  uniformity  of 
their  piety,  as  well  as  by  the  soundness  of  their  doctrine 
and  the  laboriousness  of  their  lives.  In  all  such  a  con- 
fidence was  inspired  in  the  strictness  of  their  integrity, 
ns  well  as  in  the  wisdom  of  their  plans  of  doing  good 
to  the  souls  and  bodies  of  men. 


Rut 


--•ii_-x-!.-   cr«xu,    tiicnc   VUIU.IUVCIS1C3   ailU     IIIUUCS  VI 


i 


I 


8 


u 


A   HISTORY   OF  THB 


defence  were  confined  chiefly  to  the  pulpit,  and  to  a  re- 
publication of  a  few  of  Wesley's  and  Fletcher's  doctrinal 
and  practical  tracts  and  sermons,  the  reading  of  which 
was  confined  mostly  to  our  own  societies  and  their  im- 
mediate friends ;  we  had  no  writers  of  note  on  this  side 
the  Atlantic,  and  no  periodical  through  which  we  could 
speak  to  the  public  ear ;  for,  as  I  have  before  remarked, 
after  the  discontinuance  of  the  Arminian  Magazine, 
in  1790 — two  volumes  only  having  been  published — 
with  the  exception  of  a  few  straggling  pamphle's,  which 
scarcely  survived  the  day  of  their  birth,  our  press  was  as 
silent  as  the  grave  in  respect  to  uttering  a  sentiment 
from  an  American  author,  and  the  Magazine  was  not 
resumed  until  the  year  1818,  and  even  then,  as  its  re- 
spected editor  announced,  with  much  fear  and  trem- 
bling for  its  success. 

Yet,  as  the  Methodist'^  increased  in  number  and  re- 
spectability, and  their  influence  upon  the  public  mind 
was  proportionately  augmented,  other  denominations 
began  to  awake  from  their  slumber,  to  look  about  them 
for  other  means  than  those  heretofore  used  for  offensive 
warfare,  as  well  as  to  defend  themselves  against  the  in- 
roads which  Methodism  was  making  upon  their  con- 
gregations, and  the  impression  it  produced  upon  the 
public  mind.  For  these  "  circuit-riders"  were  no  idle 
shepherds.  They  not  only  rode  circuits,  but  they 
•'went  everywhere  preaching  the  kingdom  of  God," 
breaking  over  parish  lines,  entering  into  every  optni 
door,  and  with  a  loud,  distinct  voice,  proclaiming  to  all 
they  could  prevail  on  to  hear  them,  that  they  must 
"  fear  God  and  give  glory  to  his  name."  Hence  the 
opposition  to  our  distinctive  doctrines  and  modes  of  pro- 
cedure became  more  serious  and  svst^ennatiGal  -  n«ir  o"- 
3  ^  i 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH. 


la 


ponetits  began  to  feel  the  necessity  of  meeting  us  in  the 
field  of  argument  with  more  fairness ;  and  instead  of 
drawing  ridiculous  caricatures  for  the  amusement  of 
themselves  and  their  readers,  to  slate  our  doctrines  as 
we  hold  them.     This,  we  say,  became  necessary,  for 
the  eyes  of  the  public  were  becoming  somewhat  en- 
lightened in  respect  to  what  Wesleyan  Methodists  really 
believed  and  taught,  and  were  thence  led  to  hear,  and 
read,  and  compare  for  themselves.     The  consequence 
was,  that  the  offensive  features  of  Calvinism  were  be- 
coming more  and  more  repulsive,  and  the  creed  by 
which  its  nominal  followers  were  distinguished  under- 
went some  modifications,  better  suited,  as  was  thought, 
to  the  temper  of  the  times.    Thus,  instead  of  ascribing 
the  final  destinies  of  mankind  to  an  omnipotent  decree, 
the  subtle  distinction  was  introduced  between  the  natu- 
ral and  moral  abilities  of  men,  making  the  latter  the 
only  potent  barrier  to  the  sinner's  salvation.     This  the- 
ory, which  for  some  time  was  confined  to  comparatively 
few,  seems  to  have  been  an  improvement  upon  Presi- 
dent Edwards's  system  On  the  Will,  and  was  invented 
by  Dr.  Hopkins,  of  Newport,  R.  I.,  and  thenceforth 
called,  by  way  of  distinction,  Hopkinsianism.     This, 
it  was  thought  by  many,  would  enable  them  to  meet 
and  obviate  the  objections  which  were  brought  against 
the  doctrine  of  unconditional  election  and  reprobation, 
by  placing  the  criminality  of  all  sinful  actions  in  the 
perversity  of  the  human  will,  called  "  moral  inability," 
especially  as  they  contended  that  the  sinner  possessed  a 
"  natural  ahilitif  to  do  all  which  God  required.    Hence 
the  doctrine  of  eternal  decrees,  as  taught  by  John  Cal- 
vin, though  still  held  in  theory,  was  . »  idiously  kept  out 

--  -*D J  •e..^jc    rVxiu  winuiaccu  iiicsc  iicw  viuws,  unu 

3 


It 


16 


A    HISTORY   OF    THE 


the  theory  of  "  natural  ability  and  moral  inability"  was 
substituted  in  its  place. 

This  subtle  theory,  however,  by  no  means  answered 
the  proposed  end.  The  Methodists  still  insisted  that 
this  "natural  abihty,"  however  potent,  could  never 
overcome  the  efficient  operation  of  an  immutable  de- 
cree, which  had  fixed  the  destinies  of  all  mankind  before 
the  worlds  were  made — nor  would  the  moral  ability  or 
inability  alter  that  which  had  been  made  unalterable 
by  the  eternal  fiat  of  the  Almighty. 

These  conflicting-  theories  somewhat  changed  the 
points  of  controversy  between  the  Calvir lists  and  Ar- 
minians.  While  Wesley  and  Fletcher  were  compelled, 
from  their  position,  to  meet  their  antagoni&ts  on  the  old 
points  of  controversy  which  had  been  mooted  in  the 
Protestant  world  from  the  days  of  John  CEilvin,  his  sys- 
tem had  now  assumed,  under  the  improving  hands  of 
some  of  his  most  distinguished  followers,  so  many  new 
traits,  that  new  arguments  of  defence  were  called  for  by 
the  advocates  of  universal  atonement  and  conditional 
salvation.  Under  these  circumstances,  many,  on  both 
sides  of  these  controverted  points,  thought  it  their  duty 
to  enter  the  field  of  theological  discussion.  This  they 
did  with  all  the  ardor  of  new  recruits.  And  among 
those  who  distinguished  themselves  in  conducting  this 
theological  warfare,  might  be  mentioned  men  who  had 
grown  gray  in  the  cause  of  Christ,  as  well  as  others 
of  younger  years,  whose  youthful  temperament  may 
have  betrayed  them  into  a  liarshness  of  expression,  on 
some  occasions,  incompatible  with  the  meekness  and 
soberness  of  the  Christian  minister — faults  of  human 
beings,  for  which  the  Christian  system  alone  provides 
an  adequate  atonement  and  mode  of  forgiveness. 
3 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


17 


At  length  circumstances  led  the  author  of  this  His- 
tory into  a  public  debate  with  a  Presbyterian  minister, 
which  was  held  in  the  town  of  Durham,  N.  Y.,  May 
10,  IRIO.     The  discussion  involved  the  "  Five  Points," 
so  long  mooted  by  Calvinists  and  Arminians,  and  some 
of  the  other  subjects  of  dispute  already  indicated.     Not 
long  after,  the  pastor  of  the  congregation  in  whose 
church  the  debate  was  conducted,  the  Rev.  Ralph  Wil- 
liston,  published  a  volume  of  sermons,  in  which  he  en- 
tered into  a  discussion  of  the  topics  which  had  been  the 
subjects  of  controversy  in  the  pubUc  debate,  and  con- 
cluded the  whole  with  an  examination  into  the  charac- 
ter of  "Satan's  ministers,"  in  which  it  was  broadly  in- 
sinuated that  our  ministers,  on  several  accounts,  might 
be  classed  under  that  denomination.     As  it  was  thought 
by  many  that  these  sermons  gave  a  distorted  view  of 
some  of  our  doctrines,  and  must  exert  an  injurious  in- 
fluence upon  our  ministry,  a  reply  was  published  in 
1815,  in  six  letters  addressed  to  the  author  of  the  ser- 
mons, in  which  an  attempt  was  made  to  rectify  his 
mistakes,  to  refute  his  arguments  in  favor  of  the  Cal- 
vinistic  and  Hopkinsian  theory,  and  to  vindicate  the 
doctrines  and  ministry  of   the  Methodist    Episcopal 
Church.    Some  portions  of  these  letters  were  severely 
animadverted  upon  by  the  Rev.  Mr.  Haskil,  of  Ver- 
mont, to  which  an  answer  was  published  in  a  small 
book,  called  "  Predestination  Examined."     Soon  after, 
Mr.  Williston  sent  out  a  second  volume,  in  reply  to  the 
*•'  Errors  of  Hopkinsianism,"  the  title  of  the  book  contain- 
ing the  letters  addressed  to  that  gentleman,  called  "  A 
Vindication  of  some  of  the  essential  Doctrines  of  the 
Reformation."    This  attempt  to  identify  the  peculiari- 
lies  of  Hopkinsianism  with  the  essential  doctrines  of  the 

2  3 


18 


A   HISTORY    OF   THE 


reformers,  called  forth  "  The  Reformer  Reformed,"  the 
title  being  suggested  by  the  impression,  that  if  the  Re- 
formation carried  with  it  errors  of  such  a  pernicious 
consequence,  as  it  was  believed  must  flow  from  the  doc- 
tnne  of  an  efficient  operation  of  universal  and  immu- 
table decrees,  ths  Reformation  itself  needed  reforming 
-~a  sentiment  not  retracted  on  more  mature  con- 
sideration. 

It  by  no  means  becomes  me  to  express  an  opinion  of 
the  character  or  results  of  this  protracted  discussion, 
though  I  may  be  allowed  to  indulge  a  hope  that  it  had 
Its  use  in  bringing  our  doctrines  more  prominently  be- 
fore the  public,  in  rectifying  some  erroneous  impressions 
respecting  our  ministry  and  usages,  and  in  awakening 
public  attention  to  the  precise  points  of  difference  be- 
tween us  and  our  Calvinistic  brethren.     The  subject, 
however,  has  been  thus  introduced  here,  because  these 
things  belong  properly  to  the  history  of  the  times,  and 
also  to  show  the  position  we  occupied  in  the  ecclesias- 
tical affairs  of  the  country,  as  well  as  the  duties  which 
seemed  to  devolve  on  us  to  defend,  as  far  as  we  were 
able,  our  doctrines  and  usages  from  all  unjust  imputa- 
tions.   It  wiU  be  found  in  the  sequel  that  we  were  called 
upon  to  sustain  an  arduous  conflict  with  our  brethren 
of  other  denominations,  as  weU  as  with  some  of  our  own 
household,  who,  for  various  reasons,  "went  out  from 
us,"  in  order  to  rescue  our  ministry  from  reproach,  and 
our  doctrines,  government,  and  usages  from  the  nume- 
rous objections  which  were  preferred  against  them. 

Another  thing  tended  about  this  time  to  direct  our 
attention  to  the  general  state  of  the  religious  affairs  in 
our  country.  Allusion  has  aheady  been  made  to  the 
"Charitable  Society  for  the  Education  of  pious  Young 


METHODIST  EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


19 


Men  for  the  Ministry  of  the  Gospel,"  and  of  the  coin- 
mission  which  was  sent  to  explore  the  western  country^ 
and  to  report  the  religious  state  of  things  in  tliat  portion 
of  our  republic. 

To  awaken  public  attention  to  the  necessity  and  im- 
portance of  sustaining  this  society,  Dr.  Lyman  Beecher, 
in  behalf  of  the  society,  issued   an  address  to  the 
churches,  calling  on  them  for  pecuniary  aid,  to  support 
and  educate  indigent  pious  young  men  for  the  ministry, 
assigning,  among  other  reasons,  the  peculiar  fitness  of 
such  young  men,  from  their  more  hardy  character  ancf 
habits  of  life,  to  enter  upon  this  rugged  field  of  labor. 
To  make  the  deeper  and  more  powerful  impression 
upon  the  Christian  community  in  favor  of  the  object 
proposed,  the  address  went  into  a  statistical  account  of 
the  religious  state  of  the  several  portions  of  our  country, 
and  concluded  by  a  most  rousing  appeal  to  the  sympa- 
thies and  liberality  of  the  people  in  behalf  of  the  Educa- 
tion Society.     In  describing  the  moral  and  spiritual 
desolations  of  these  United  States,  the  address  disclosed 
the  astounding  fact,' that,  in  addition  to  those  already  in 
the  services  of  the  sanctuary,  there  were  wanting  ^^five 
thousand  competent  ministers,"  to  supply  the  entire 
population  of  our  country  with  the  word  and  ordinances 
of  the  gospel. 

At  the  announcement  of  this  fact,  the  Christian  com- 
munity awoke  as  from  a  deep  slumber.  They  began 
10  look  around  them  for  the  data  on  which  this  calcula- 
tion was  founded.  On  examination,  it  was  ascertained 
that  the  address  assumed  the  necessity  of  one  minister 
to  every  one  thousand  souls— that,  as  there  were  at 
tlie  time  eight  millions  of  inhabitants  in  the  United 
States  and  territories,  and   as  there  were,  says  the 


20 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


address,  only  three  thousand  educated  ministers  in  the 
land,  there  remained  five  millions  of  the  inhabitants 
destitute  of  a  competent  ministry.  This  was  an  alarm- 
ing conclusion. 

Among  others  who  published  strictures  on  this  strange 
production,  the  late  Rev.  Freeborn  Garrettson  wrote  a 
small  pamphlet,  in  which  he  showed  the  effect  which 
the  statements  set  forth  in  the  address  must  have  upon 
other  denominations.    He,  as  well  as  others  who  ex- 
amined the  statistics  of  Dr.  Beecher,  concluded  that  he 
meant  to  exclude  all  other  ministers  than  those  of  the 
Calvinistic  order  from  being  "  competent"  to  the  work 
in  which  they  were  engaged ;  for,  on  a  very  moderate 
calculation,  there  were  even  then  more  than  three  thou- 
sand ministers  belonging  to  the  Presbyterian,  Dutch 
Reformed,  and  Congregational  churches ;  and  it  is  be- 
lieved that  among  the  Baptist,  Lutheran,  Protestant, 
and   Methodist  Episcopal  Churches,   without  saying 
any  thing  of  the  minor  sects,  there  were  more  than 
five  thousand  ministers,  many  of  whom  would  by  no 
means  suffer  from  a  comparison  with  their  brethren  of 
the  other  denominations ;  hence,  allowing  the  accuracy 
of  this  calculation,  there  was  at  that  very  time  more 
than  one  minister  for  every  one  thousand  human  souls ; 
the  irresistible  conclusion  therefore  was,  that  the  address 
excluded  from  the  catalogue  of  competent  ministers  all 
except  those  who  belonged  to  one  or  the  other  of  the 
Calvinistic  churches  above  named.     And  this  conclusion 
is  strengthened  by  the  fact,  that  the  address  dwelt  so 
emphatically  upon  the  necessity  of  "an  educated  min- 
istry" as  being  essential  to  the  eflScient  discharge  of  its 
duties,   as  it  is  well  known  that  most  of  the  other 
churches,  however  highly  they  might  appreciate  human 
3 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


21 


learning,  do  not  consider  it  an  essential  prerequisite  to  a 
gospel  ministry. 

Such  a  disclosure  of  opinions,  so  deeply  implicating 
the  character  and  competency  of  so  many  ministers, 
many  of  whom  had  furnished  the  most  irrefutable  evi- 
dence of  their  efficiency  in  spreading  the  doctrines  of 
God  our  Saviour,  taken  in  connection  with  the  report 
from  the  commission  sent  to  explore  our  western  coun- 
try, might  well  alarm  the  apprehensions  of  all  con- 
cerned ;  and  hence  a  deep  tone  of  dissatisfaction  was 
heard  throughout  the  churches,  and  a  general  burst  of 
indignation  against  the  assumptions  of  the  address  was 
simultaneously  expressed  by  the  several  denominations 
who  felt  that  their  ministry  were  proscribed  by  its  un- 
warrantable conclusions.  The  zeal,  too,  w^ith  which 
the  address  urged  its  claims  upon  the  churches  more 
immediately  interested  in  its  objects,  showed  that  a 
mighty  effort  was  making  to  carry  into  practical  effect  its 
comprehensive  plans.  As  an  evidence  of  this  take  the 
following  extract : — 

"  To  produce  such  a  combination  and  such  an  effort,  the 
wretched  state  of  our  country  must  be  made  known.  The 
information  contained  in  this  address  may  with  propriety, 
it  is  believed,  be  communicated  on  the  sabbath  to  all  our 
worshiping  assemblies,  and  the  investigation  commenced 
in  it  be  continued,  until  a  regular  and  minute  account  be 
given  of  the  religious  state  of  our  land.  The  newspaper, 
the  tract,  and  magazine  must  disclose  to  our  slumbering 
countrymen  their  danger.  The  press  must  groan  in  the 
communication  of  our  wretchedness ;  and  from  every  pul- 
pit in  oiir  land  the  trumpet  must  sound  long  and  loud.  The 
nation  must  be  awakened  to  save  itself  by  its  own  ener- 
gies, or  we  are  undone," 


22 


K    HISTORY    OF    THE 


'J%- 


We  have  no  right,  nor  have  we  any  wish,  to  decide 
upon  the  character  of  men's  motives,  any  farther  than 
their  worda  and  actions  proclaim  it.      And  allowing 
that  the  end  proposed  by  the  gentlemen  who  wrote  and 
sanctioned  this   address  was  purely  the  salvation  of 
souls  from  sin,  and  the  salvation  of  our  country  from  its 
ruinous  consequences,  the  means  used  were  highly 
laudable,  and  the  stirring  language  of  (he  address,  a 
fair  sample  of  which  is  found  in  the  preceding  extract, 
was  admirably  calculated  to  arouse  the  slumbering  ener- 
gies of  the  church  to  a  zealous  activity  in  the  cause  of 
reform.   Yet  it  could  not  but  seem  somewhat  strange  to 
us,  that  they  should  not  have  awakened  to  this  all-im- 
poitant  subject  until  just  then— at  a  time  too  when 
other  denominations,  and  particularly  the  Methodists, 
had  been  blessed  with  the  most  extensive  revivals  of 
religion  which  had  been  witnessed  in  any  age  or  land 
since  the  apostolic  days.     This  is  fully  attested  by  the 
preceding  volume  of  this  History.     Were  the  authors 
of  this  address  ignorant  of  these  facts  ?     We  had  reason 
to  believe  that  it  was  a  knowledge  of  them  which 
aroused  their  dormant  energies,  and  led  them  just  then 
to  put  forth  their  strength  to  counteract  the  growing  in- 
fluence of  Methodism.     For  it  was  to  the  western 
country  chiefly,  and  in  the  southern  states,  that  this 
society  were  about  to  direct  their  efforts  to  supply  the 
lack  of  ministerial  service.     And  it  was  in  the  west, 
more  especially  that  our  ministry  had  been  so  abun- 
dantly blessed.     It  was  here,  where  the  inhabitaLLs 
from  the  older  states  and  from  Europe  were  pouring  in 
with  unparalleled  rapidity,  that,  through  the  agency  of 
camp  meetings,  and  a  general  itinerant  ministry,  Me- 
thodism had  a!ita.!y  wrought  wonders,  and  was  still 
3 


n 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


99 


^ 


going  forward,  keeping  pace  with  the  extension  of  the 
settlements,  and  bowing  the  hearts  of  sinners  to  the 
yoke  of  Jesus  Christ.    Had  we  not,  therefore,  reason  to 
suspect  that  our  ministry  especially  ^  ere  denounced  as 
incompetent,  and  that  the  fear  was  the  country  would 
become  deluged  with  the  bitter  waters  issuing  from  the 
corrupt  fountain  of  Methodism !      Whether  true  or 
false,  such  was  the  impression,  and  therefore,  in  con- 
junction with  otliers  who  felt  themselves  deeply  impli- 
cated by  the  assumptions  of  this  remarkable  address,  we 
felt  ourselves  authorized  to  enter  our  protest  against  its 
docuiiies,  and  to  furnish  the  people  with  an  antidote  to 
its  injurious  insinuations.     This,  as  I  have  before  said, 
was  done  by  Mr.  Garrettson ;  and  the  foUowing  extract 
from  his  pamphlet  will  show  the  successful  manner  in 
\vhich  he  exposed  and  refuted  the  erroneous  calculations 
of  the  address.     Addressing  himself  directly  to  Dr. 
Beecher,  he  thus  shows  the  fallacy  of  his  arguments:— 

"You  have  placed  your  church  in  Connecticut  on  the 
highest  scale  among  the  several  states  in  the  Union.  You 
have  given  a  short  history  of  it,  and  have,  in  your  way, 
prostrated  the  southern  part  of  our  country.  Probably  you 
are  a  native  of  Connecticut ;  I  was  born  in  Maryland ; 
and  as  you  have,  among  other  southern  states,  undertaken 
to  degrade  the  religious  character  of  the  people  of  this 
state,  I  am  willing  to  compare  them  with  those  of  your 
state,  I  am  well  acquainted  with  almost  every  part  of 
both  ;  .nd  as  you  have  fixed  your  eye  on  the  Congreaa- 
tional  Church  in  Connecticut,  I  shall  fuc  mine  on  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  Marx^and. 

«  You  say  that  you  have  upward  of  200  congregations, 
averagmg  50  mem.bers  each,  making  about  10,000  church 
members.     I  have  looked  over  oiu:  church  records,  and 


24  A    HISTORY    OF    THE 

find  that  we  have  in  Maryland*  more  than  26,000  church 
members,  who  have  the  pure  word  of  God  preached,  and 
the  sacraments  duly  administered." 

It  was,  moreover,  the  opinion  of  many,  that  the  ad- 
dress liad  a  political  object  in  view.  This  opinion  was 
foimded  on  the  foUowinjr  extract,  taken  in  connection 
v/ith  the  conclusion  which  seems  to  be  warranted  from 
the  general  tenor  of  the  address,  that  ministers  of  other 
(itmominations  were  proscribed  as  being  incompetent. 
After  speaking  of  tho  defective  character  of  the  general 
"government,  on  account  of  its  not  containing  adequate 
provisions  for  its  own  permanency,  the  address  adds : 

"  A  remedy  must  be  apphed  to  this  vital  defect  of  our 
national  organization.  But  what  shall  that  remedy  be? 
There  can  be  but  one.  The  consolidation  of  the  state 
governments  would  be  a  despotism.  But  the  prevalence 
of  pious,  intelligent,  enterprising  ministers  through  the 
nation,  at  the  ratio  of  one  for  a  thousand,  would  establish 
schools,  and  academies,  and  colleges,  and  habits  and  insti- 
tutions of  homogeneous  influence.  These  would  produce 
a  sameness  of  views,  and  feelings,  and  interests,  which 
would  lay  the  foundation  of  our  empire  on  a  rock.  Reli- 
gion is  the  central  attraction  which  must  supply  the  deii- 

*  Dr.  Beecher  had  represented  the  state  of  Maryland  as 
bemg  in  a  most  deplorable  condition.  After  having  said  that 
Virginia,  with  a  population  of  974,622,  needed  900  ministers 
in  addition  to  the  60  it  already  had  to  make  up  the  one  for 
every  1,000  of  the  inhabitants,  he  says,  «  Of  the  state  of  Ma- 
ryland we  cannot  speak  particularly.  But  from  general 
information  on  the  subject,  we  have  no  reason  to  believe  the 
supply  any  better  than  that  of  Virginia;"  that  is,  as  60  to 
f)00.  He  must  therefore  have  considered  either  that  the 
Methodists  were  not  worthy  to  be  included  among  Christian 
ministers  and  members  of  the  church,  or  otherwise  greatly 
depreciated  the  religious  churacter  of  the  state  o.C  \fnvv!un:! 


•t     -Titii  y  xntiu. 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL  CHURCH. 


25 


ciency  of  political  affinity  and  interest.     Religion  is  the 
bond  of  charity,  which  in  storms  must  undcrgird  the  ship." 

We  accord  to  the  soundness  of  these  sentiments,  pro- 
vided tliey  apply  to  Christianity  as  a  system  of  universal 
good-will  to  men,  and  as  designed  and  calculated  to 
connect  the  hearts  of  all  together  m  one  common 
brotherhood,  and  finally  to  produce,  by  its  action  on  tlie 
heart  and  conduct,  a  conformity  to  its  hcly  precepts. 
But  the  general  contents  and  manifest  tendency  of  the 
add  ess  seemed  to  forbid  such  a  construction,  and  to 
place  it^  authors  in  the  position  of  strong  seciarists,  who 
were  laboring  to  build  up  a  particular  denomination  at 
the  expense  of  all  the  rest.  This  "  homogeneous  influ- 
ence"— this  "sameness  of  views,  and  feelings,  and 
interests,"  were  to  be  produced  by  the  multiplication  of 
"educated  and  competent  ministers,"  who  should  be 
trained  up  in  the  school  of  this  society,  who  should 
receive  their  lessons  of  instruction  from  Ando\  er,  and 
thence  go  out  clothed  with  authority  to  propagate  Cal- 
vinism, whether  under  the  lorm  of  the  Old  or  Ne^^- 
School  Divinity,  whether  in  the  guise  of  Congregational 
or  Presbyterian  theology;  while  it  appeared  manifest 
that  all  others  were  proscribed  as  heterodox  and  incom- 
petent, and  therefore  could  not  contribute  to  throw 
around  the  national  ship,  in  time  of  a  tempest,  the 
strong  cords  of  pure  religion,  and  thus  save  the  nation 
from  a  political  wreck. 

We  do  not  indeed  say  that  this  was  the  real  design 
of  the  authors  of  this  address ;  but  if  it  were  not,  it  was 
most  unhappily  worded,  and  should  have  been  either 
corrected  or  disavowed,  neither  of  which,  so  far  as  is 
known   to  the   present   writer,   has  ever  been   done, 

oWK.-v«»'»l^     T     l>^K~..—     ii.-*     ii —     ?._/• __,i-;_i.     --_ 

auitUugii    X    uciicvc    inai    liic    iiiicrunccs    which    wefS 


Ilii- 


m 


A   HISTORT   OF   THE 


drawn  from  it,  and  the  general  indignation  it  produced 
in  a  great  portion  of  tlie  religious  community,  caused 
Its  authors  to  withdraw  it  from  circulation.* 

Thus  much  I  have  thought  it  a  duty  to  say  ki 
respect  to  this  controversy,  because  of  its  immediate 
bearmg  on  the  interests  of  our  Church,  and  its  more 
remote  tendency  upon  its  future  history.  It  certainly 
tended  to  keep  alive  the  fire  of  contention  between  us 
and  the  Calvinistic  churches,  and  thus  to  widen  the 
breach  already  existing  between  the  two  great  families, 
the  Calvinists  and  Arminians. 

There  was  another  event  of  general  interest  which 
occurred  thi*^  year,  and  which  had  a  favorable  bearing 
upon  our  affairs,  particularly  in  the  state  of  Connecticut. 
In  tms  state  the  original  charter,  which  was  received 
from  the  king  of  England  on  the  first  settlement  of  the 
counuy,  had  been  the  only  constitution  the  state  had 
possessed  up  to  the  time  of  which  we  now  speak.  It 
IS  well  known  that  in  the  early  setdement  of  that 
colony,  provision  was  made  by  law  that  no  person 

with?hl^^'?^'''7ll°  ^w'^*^  '^^  ^^^^^««' '"  «  conversation 
with  the  writer  of  this  History,  remarked,  that  he  had  been 

misunderstood,  and  therefore  had  suffered  much  abuse  from 

he  pubhc  press,  on  account  of  the  sentiments  set  fo-th  in 

Inn  .1^''-.  ^'  '''^l^'^^^^  "  Why,  then,  do  you  not  explain 
yourself,  and  set  the  public  right?"  The  reply  was  "I 
cannot  do  it  »vithout  making  matters  worse."  From  this  it 
was  inferred  that  he  found  himself  in  a  dilemma,  from  which 
he  could  not  extricate  himself  without  offending  one  party  or 
theother^    I  think  it,  however,  but  justice  to%ay,  ^that\e 

f,  flrn?.!,""^  V"''"l!''"  ^^  producing  any  other  political 

fluence  than  what  should  arise  from  a  religious  purification 

of   he  moral  atmosphere,  so  that  men  should  rome  to  the 

polls  under  the  restraints  of  Christian  principles ;  and  that 

llVf^T"^  TT'y  ^"  ^'^  "^'  "»««»  ^  collegiate,  but 
only  a  theological  education. 

3 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


27 


should  vote  at  an  election,  or  hold  a  civil  office,  unless 
he  were  a  member  of  the  church.     This  severe  and 
impolitic  law  was  aftervi^ard  so  far  relaxed  as  to  allow 
those  who  joined  the  "half-way  covenant,"  in  order  to 
obtain  Christian  baptism  for  their  children,  to  be  eligible 
to  civil  offices,  and  to  exercise  the  right  of  suffrage. 
Still,  however,  the  law  was  exclusive  in  its  demands, 
making  it  essential,  in  order  to  possess  civil  rights,  to 
be  either  in  the  "  half-way  covenant,"  that  is,  members 
of  the  Congregational  society,  or  otherwise  to  become 
full  members  of  that  church.     By  these  civil  regula- 
tions the  Congregationalists  were  established  by  law, 
and  were  supported  by  a  regular  tax,  while  other  sects 
were  held  under  civil  disabilities,   being  obliged,   in 
addition  to  supporting  themselves,  to  contribute  their 
quota  for  the  maintenance  of  the  established  clergy,  at 
the  same  time  that  they  were  disfranchised  from  the 
privileges  of  freemen,  by  an  exclusion  from  all  offices  of 
trust  and  profit.     Nor  could  the  clergy  of  the  Dissenters 
perform  the  rites  of  matrimony  even  for  members  of 
their  own  congregations. 

These  severe  and  unjust  regulations  were  so  far 
modified  from  time  to  time  as  to  allow  those  who 
belonged  to  dissentient  sects  the  privilege  of  depositing 
a  certificate  in  the  town  clerk's  office  of  their  having 
separated  themselves  from  the  "standing  order,"  and 
they  were  thereby  exempted  from  paying  ministerial 
tax  for  the  maintenance  of  the  established  clergy. 
They  were  also  entitled  to  hold  offices  in  the  state,  and 
to  vote  at  the  elections. 

Such  was  the  general  state  of  things  in  Connecticut, 
when  some  circimistances  happened  which  resulted  in 

the  nvf>rf.hrnnr  nf  ihia  lorml  Viiaraf/tVi^r   .^^A  ^\^~^A  »ii  *l. 


38 


k   HISTORY   OP   THE 


religious  sects  upon  an  equal  standing,  both  in  civil 
and  religious  affairs. 

During  the  war  of  1812-1815,  the  militia  of  that 
state  were  called  out,  by  order  of  the  general  govern- 
ment, to  defend  the  people  against  the  apprehended 
depredations  of  the  enemy.  The  authorities  of  the 
state,  however,  refused  to  let  their  militia  serve  under 
United  States'  officers,  but  they  were  marshalled  under 
those  appointed  by  the  state.  The  consequence  was, 
that  the  general  government  refused  to  pay  the  expense 
of  the  campaign.  After  the  restoration  of  peace,  the  state 
of  Connecticut  petitioned  Congress  to  refund  the  amount 
which  the  state  had  expended  in  paying  for  the  services 
of  the  militia  during  the  late  war,  a  part  of  which  was 
granted  by  the  general  government,  and  paid  into  the 
treasury  of  the  state.  The  legislature  of  Connecticut, 
with  a  view  to  conciliate  all  parties,  resolved  that  the 
money  thus  refunded  should  be  divided  among  the 
several  religious  denominations,  which  was  accordingly 
done;  but,  in  the  estimation  of  the  Protestant  and 
Methodist  Episcopalians  and  Baptists,  the  division  was 
so  unequal,  such  an  undue  proportion  being  given  to 
the  Congregationalists,  that  they  took  offence,  some  of 
them  refusing  to  receive  what  was  awarded  to  them, 
and  all  united  to  protest  against  the  proceedings  as 
illiberal,  unequal,  and  unjust.  This  led  to  a  union  of 
effort  between  the  dissatisfied  denominations  agahist 
the  standing  order ;  and,  seizing  upon  the  occasion  as 
an  auspicious  mbment  to  assert  their  rights,  they  suc- 
ceeded in  calling  a  state  convention,  by  vi^hich  the  old 
charter  of  Charles  II.  was  abrogated,  a  bill  of  rights  pro- 
mulgated, and  a  new  constitution  framed  and  adopted, 
which  abolished  church  taxes  and  exclusive  privilegres, 
8 


1816.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


39 


and  put  all  sects  upon  an  equality  in  respect  to  civU 
and  religious  rights;  and  thus  they  enfranchised  the 
proscribed  portion  of  the  community,  making  all  alike, 
dependant  on  the  voluntary  principle  for  the  support  of 
the  clergy  and  other  incidents  of  divine  worship. 

This  result  was  hailed  as  an  auspicious  period  by 
the  friends  of  equal  rights,  both  in  and  out  of  the 
churches,  as  it  did  away  the  odious  distinction  between 
the  privileged  order,  who  had  been  so  long  established 
by  law,  and  the  various  sects  which  had  sprung  up  in 
the  state,  some  of  whom  were  nearly  as  numerous  as 
were  the  Congregationalists  themselves,  and,  when 
united  with  the  others,  formed  a  decided  majority. 

This  was  breaking  the  last  link  of  legal  tyranny  in 
religious  matters  in  our  country— with  the  exception, 
perhaps,  of  some  of  its  relics  which  are  dangling  upon 
the  civil  code  of  Massachusetrs— by  proclaiming  to  all 
the  rights  of  conscience,  according  to  the  laws  of  nature, 
of  God,  and  the  fundamental  principles  of  our  national 
constitution. 

Having  noticed  these  matters,  because  they  had  and 
still  have  a  bearing  upon  our  history,  I  shall  now  pro- 
ceed in  the  narration  of  the  affairs  of  our  Church  in 
their  regular  order. 

The  death  of  Bishop  Asbury,  as  related  in  the  pre- 
ceding chapter,  left  us  with  only  one  superintendent, 
Bishop  M'Kendree,  and  he  was  in  a  very  delicate  state 
of  health.  He  continued,  however,  to  discharge  hw 
official  duties,  and  was  much  supported  in  his  labors  by 
the  good  coimtenance  of  his  brethren  in  the  ministry 
and  membership. 

The  number  of  Church  members  for  1816  shows 
that  the  increase  was  smnll.  ne  ihn  rr\tinty,T  haA  «/^♦  -.r^* 


30 


A  HISTORY   OP  THE 


[1816. 


im 


!i-    i'l! 


ir  M 


m 


fully  recovered  from  the  shock  it  had  received  from  the 
late  war,  nor  was  the  spirit  of  revival  and  reformation 
in  that  holy  and  vigorous  exercise,  by  which  it  had 
shown  itself  at  some  former  periods.  Indeed,  a  dis- 
putatious spirit,  in  respect  to  some  points  of  church 
government,  engrossed  too  much  of  the  time  and  atten- 
tion of  many,  it  is  to  be  feared,  to  the  neglect  of  the 
«  weightier  matters  of  the  law,  judgment,  justice,  and 
the  love  of  God." 

Numbers  in  the  Church. 

Whites.  Colored.  Total.        Preachers 

This  year      171,931       42,304       214,235       695 
Last  year      167,978       43,187       211,165       704 


Increase        3,953    Dec.  883     In.  3,070  Dec.  9 

It  will  be  perceived  from  the  above  that  there  was  a 
decrease  of  nearly  nine  hundred  colored  members.  This 
was  owing  to  a  defection  among  the  colored  people  in 
the  city  of  Philadelphia,  by  which  upward  of  one  thou- 
sand in  that  city  withdrew  from  our  Church  and  set  up 
for  themselves,  with  Richard  Allen,  a  colored  local 
preacher—an  elder  in  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church 
—at  their  head. 

We  have  already  had  occasion  to  notice  the  labors  of 
the  Methodist  ministry  in  behalf  of  the  colored  popula- 
tion of  our  country,  both  free  and  enslaved.  Many 
thousands  had  become  members  of  the  Church,  and 
were  in  general  orderly  and  exemplary  in  their  conduct ; 
and  some  of  those  who  were  free  had  acquired  wealth 
and  rest  octability  in  the  community.  Among  these 
converted  negroes  a  considerable  nuntber,   possessing 

gias  for  the  edification  of  their  brethren,  had  received 
3 


I 


1816.] 


METHODIST  EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


31 


I 


license  to  preach,  and  several  had  been  ordained  dea- 
cons, and  a  few  to  the  office  of  local  elders. 

Among  the  latter  was  Richard  Allen,  of  Philadel- 
phia.   By  habits  of  industry  and  economy,  though 
born  a  slave  in  one  of  the  southern  states,  he  had  not 
only  procured  his  freedom,  but  acquired  considerable 
wealth,  and,  since  he  had  exercised  the  office  of  a 
preacher    and    an    elder,    obtained    great    influence 
over  his  brethren  in  the  Church.     By  his  assistance, 
and  the  assistance  of  their  white  brethren,  they  had 
built  them  a  decent  house  of  worship,  and  were  regu- 
larly organized  into  a  Christian  church,  according  to 
our  disciplinary  regulations,  and  were  put  under  the 
pastoral  oversight  of  a  white  elder,  stationed  by  the 
bishop  presiding  in  the  Philadelphia  conference. 

Under  this  state  of  things  all  seemed  to  go  on  well 
and  prosperously.  Mutual  affection  and  confidence 
between  the  white  and  colored  congiegations,  not  in 
that  city  only,  but  also  in  most  of  the  populous  cities 
and  villages  in  the  Union,  promised  the  most  happy 
results  of  their  united  endeavors  to  promote  their  tem- 
poral  and  spiritual  welfare.  This  harmony,  however, 
was,  by  some  untoward  circumstances,  interrupted! 
Mutual  distrust  and  dissatisfaction  succeeded,  until 
finally  AUen,  and  those  who  had  been  brought  under 
his  influence,  separated  themselves  from  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church.  This  occurred  in  the  month  of 
April,  1816. 

At  the  secession  they  organized  themselves  into  an 
independent  body,  under  the  title  of  the  "African  Me- 
thodist Episcopal  Church,"  adopting  our  doctrines  as 
their  standards,  and,  as  far  as  their  circumstances  would 
seem  to  allow,  our  form  of  discipline  for  their  govern- 


32 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1816. 


!:      ■■■\'t: 


menl.  At  their  first  General  Conference,  held  in  April 
of  this  year,  Richard  Allen  was  elected  to  the  office  of  a 
bishop,  and  was  consecrated  by  prayer  and  the  imposi- 
tion of  the  hands  of  five  colored  local  elders,  one  of 
whom,  Absalom  Jones,  was  a  priest  of  the  Protestant 
Episcopal  Church.  Though  the  circumstances  which 
led  to  this  secession  produced  some  exasperation  of  spirit 
on  both  sides,  at  the  time,  yet  it  is  stated  by  one  of  their 
first  ministers,  that  they  have  prospered  considerably  in 
various  parts  of  the  country.  At  their  conference  in 
1828,  one  of  their  elders,  Morris  Brown,  was  elected 
and  ordained  a  joint  superintendent  v/ith  Richard  Al- 
len ;  and  after  the  death  of  the  latter,  in  1836,  Edward 
Walters  was  set  apart  with  the  usual  forms  of  conse- 
cration, as  a  joint  superintendent  with  Mr.  Brown. 

Whether  they  are  better  or  worse  off  than  they  would 
have  been  had  they  remained  in  connection  with  the 
Church  and  ministry  to  which  they  were  indebted  for 
their  spiritual  and  ecclesiastical  existence,  is  more  than 
we  have  the  means  of  knowing.  Be  this  as  it  may, 
the  secession  created  for  the  time  considerable  uneasiness 
among  our  colored  congregations  in  New- York  city  and 
some  other  places,  which  resulted  in  their  separation 
also,  although  they  did  not  all  arrange  themselves  under 
the  banners  of  Allen.  They  adopted  the  itinerant  mode 
of  preaching,  and  have  spread  themselves  in  different 
parts  of  Pennsylvania,  New- York,  New- Jersey,  Mary- 
land, and  Delaware  states,  though  it  is  believed  that 
their  congregations,  out  of  the  city  of  Philadelphia,  are 
generally  small,  and  not  very  influential.  There  are 
also  some  in  the  western  states,  and  a  few  in  Upper 
Canada.  The  exact  number  belonging  to  this  party  I 
have  not  been  able  to  ascertain. 


1816.1  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  33 

In  the  more  southern  states,  the  '' Allenites,''  as  they 
were  caUed,  by  way  of  distinction,  could  make  no 
favorable  impression,  as  their  preachers  were  noi 
recognized  by  the  laws  of  the  states,  and  the  slave 
population  who  were  members  of  our  Church  had  the 
character  of  our  white  ministry  pledged  as  a  guarantee 
for  their  good  behavior. 

General  Conference  of  1816. 
This  conference  assembled  in  the  city  of  Baltimore, 
on  the  finst  day  of  May  of  this  year,  ar.d  was  composed 
of  the  following  delegates : — 

Nm-York  Conference. 


Freeborn  Garrettson, 
William  PhoBbus, 
Nathan  Bangs, 
Ebenezer  Washburn, 
Eben  Smith, 
Nathan  Emory, 
Elijah  Woolsey, 
Samuel  Draper, 


Samuel  Merwin, 
Peter  P.  Sandford, 
Henry  Stead, 
Aaron  Hunt, 
William  Anson, 
Laban  Clark, 
Thomas  Ware, 
Daniel  Ostrander. 


New-England  Conference. 
George  Pickering,  PhiUp  Munger, 


Joshua  S 
Elijah  Hed'     .. , 
Oliver  Bealcj 
Martin  Ruter, 
Asa  Kent, 

Isaac  Puffer, 
George  Gary, 
Abner  Chase,  . 
Henry  Ryan, 
George  Harman, 


Joseph  A.  Merrill, 
Solomon  Sias, 
Charles  Virgin, 
Eleazar  Wells, 
David  Kilbom. 
Genesee  Conference. 

Dan  Barnes, 
Seth  Mattison, 
Chandley  Lambert, 
Charles  Giles, 

William  Oocy* 


m 

James  Quiim, 
Charles  Holliday, 
Marcus  Lindsay, 
Jacob  Young, 


Peter  Cartwright, 
Samuel  Sellers, 


A    HISTORY   07    THE 

Ohio  Conference. 

Samuel  Parker, 
Isaac  Quinn, 
David  Young, 
John  Sale, 
Benjamin  Lakin. 
Tennessee  Conference.- 
James  Axley, 
Jesse  Walker, 


[1816. 


Thomas  L.  Douglass. 
South  Carolina  Conference. 

Anthony  Senter, 
John  B.  Glenn, 
James  Norton, 
Solomon  Bryan, 
Henry  Bass, 
Reuben  Tucker, 
Alexander  Talley. 
Virginia  Conference. 

John  C.  Ballew. 
Ethelbert  Drake, 
Thomas  Moore, 
Minton  Thrift, 
Matthew  M.  Dance. 

Baltimore  Conference. 

Thomas  Burch, 
William  Ryland, 
Asa  Shin, 
Jacob  Gruber, 
Hamilton  Jefferson, 
Christopher  Frye, 
Beverly  Waugh. 


Lewis  Myers, 
Daniel  Asbury, 
Joseph  Tarpley, 
William  M.  Kennedy, 
Thomas  Mai^dn, 
Hilliard  Judge, 
Samuel  Dunwody, 

Pliilip  Bruce, 
William  Jean, 
Thomas  Burge, 
Edward  Cannon, 
Cannellum  H.  Hines, 

Nelson  Reed, 
Enoch  George, 
Joshua  Wells, 
Henry  Smith, 
Stephen  G.  Roszel^ 
Alfred  Griffith, 
Andrew  Hemphill, 

Philadelphia  Conference. 
Robert  Roberts,  George  Woolley, 

a 


I 


I 


1816.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 

Lawrence  McCombs,  Stephen  Martindale, 


36 


Solomon  Sharp, 
Joseph  Totten, 
John  Walker, 
Sylvester  Hill, 


Asa  Smith, 
Henry  Boehm, 
John  Emory, 
William  Bishop, 
John  Sharpley. 

The  first  thing  which  arrested  the  attention  of  alL 
and  which  seemed  to  spread  a  melancholy  gloom  over 
the  house,  was  the  absence  of  our  venerated  senior 
bishop,  whose  death  and  character  1  have  recorded  in 
the  preceding  volume. 

After  making  preparations  for  the  .emoval  of  his 
remams  from  the  place  of  their  first  sepulture,   his 
valedictory  address  was  read  to  the  conference,  which 
appeared  to  have  been  left  in  an  unfinished  state,  con- 
taining merely  the  heads  of  what  he  would  probably 
have  drawn  out  at  greater  length,  had  his  declining 
health  permitted.     It  shows,  however,  the  same  intense 
and  enlarged  desire  for  the  permanency  and  prosperity 
of  the  Church  by  which  he  had  so  long  been  characte/- 
ized,  expressed  in  his  usually  sententious  style,  and  con- 
eluded  with  an  earnest  exhortation  to  the  conference  to 
hold  fast  the  doctrines  and  discipline  under  the  influ- 
ence of  which  they  had  been  hitherto  bound  together 
blessed,  and  prospered. 

After  the  conference  was  organized,  by  the  appoint- 
ment of  a  secretary,  and  attending  to  the  usual  prelimi: 
nary  business,  Bishop  M'Kendree,  who,  by  the  death  of 
Bishop  Asbury,  was  the  only  surviving  superintendent, 
delivered  to  the  conference  an  address— a  copy  of  which 
I  have  not  been  able  to  find-non  the  general  state  of 
the  work,  and  the  necessity  of  adding  strength  to 

the  episcopacv.     TT«   nloo  *«ari«  — u    .• 

f      f  -J  -     —  ~4^^vr  ,xi«.«c  Buuu  auggesuons  as 


36 


A   HISTORY  OP   THE 


[1816. 


■';!;1 


he  thought  fit  in  respect  to  future  movements  for  the 
general  peace  and  prosperity  of  our  extended  work. 
This  address,  and  Bishop  Asbury's  valedictory,  were 
referred  to  appropriate  committees,  the  reports  of  which 
will  be  noticed  in  due  time. 

The  Rev.  Messrs.  Black  and  Bennett,  of  Nova  Scotia, 
attended  this  conference  as  delegates  from  the  British 
conference,  in  order  to  adjust,  if  possible,  certain  difficul- 
ties which  had  arisen  in  Canada,  particularly  in  the 
lower  province,  out  of  what  had  taken  place  during  the 
late  war.  As  this  sanguinary  conflict  had  occasioned  a 
temporary  separation  between  us  and  the  brethren  in 
that  country,  the  societies  in  Montreal  and  Quebec  had 
petitioned  the  mission  committee  in  London  to  supply 
them  with  preachers,  and  their  petition  had  been 
granted  and  preachers  sent.  This  occasioned  some 
uneasiness  in  the  minds  of  our  preachers  in  that  coun- 
try, and  led  to  unhappy  collisions  between  the  two 
bodies  of  Methodists,  which  resulted  finally  in  the  sepa- 
ration of  the  Methodists  in  those  provinces  from  the 
jurisdiction  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  and 
their  union  with  the  Wesleyan  Methodists  in  Eng- 
land. 

Some  correspondence  had  taken  place  between  our 
bishops  and  the  Wesleyan  Methodist  conference,  in 
relation  to  this  unhappy  aiTair;  and  at  this  General 
Conference  the  following  letter  was  received  from  the 
missionary  committee  of  London,  and  submitted  to  the 
conference,  in  connection  with  communications  from 
the  Rev.  Messrs.  Black  and  Bennett,  in  behalf  of  the 
British  connection,  and  Rev.  Messrs.  Ryan  and  Case, 
in  behalf  of  the  brethren  in  Canada.  The  letter,  which 
follows,  it  appears,  was  address'^d  to  Bishop  Asburv,  in 


1616.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


37 


I 


answer  to  one  they  had  received  from  him.     It  is  as 
follows : — 

"New  Chapel,  City  Road,  London,  Feb.  7,  1816. 
"  Very  Dear  Sir  :— It  is  by  the  particular  request  of 
the  last  British  conference  that  we,  as  members  of  the 
missionary  committee,  address  you,  and  our  brethren  in 
the  United  States,  whom  we  very  highly  esteem  as  fellow- 
citizens  of  the  saints,  and  fellow-laborers  in  the  vineyard 
of  our  common  Lord;  most  fervently  wishing  that'peace, 
righteousness,  and  joy  in  the  Holy  Ghost  may  abound  in 
you  and  by  you,  to  the  praise  of  God  and  the  glory  of  his 
grace. 

"  On  reading  your  last  very  kind  and  affectionate  letter, 
we  sympathized  with  you,  knowing  how  much  it  must 
have  affected  your  mind,  after  being  favored  with  so  much 
spiritual  prosperity,  to  have  to  lament   a  'decrease  of 
members  in  your  societies;'  but  we  :  ust,  since  it  hath 
pleased  Divine  Providence  to  cause  the  terrors  of  war  to 
cease,  and  to  restore  the  invaluable  blessing  of  peace  be- 
tween the  two  countries,  that  by  this  time  you  hail  the 
dawn  of  a  more  auspicious  day,  and  see  the  returning  glory 
of  the  Lord  revealed,  and  the  quickening  power  of  the 
Spirit  diffusing  its  reviving  influence,  and  that  the  voice  of 
joy  and  rejoicing  is  heard  in  the  congregations  of  the 
righteous.  Glory  to  God  in  the  highest,  peace  upon  earth, 
and  good-will  toward  men.     Our  united  prayer  and  suppli- 
cation for  you  is,  O  Lord,  we   beseech,   0   Lord,  we 
beseech,  send  now  prosperity ! 

"  It  is  with  gratitude  to  the  Lord  of  all  that  we  can  say, 
he  is  still  extending  his  kingdom  among  us,  by  the  instru- 
mentality of  the  preached  word;  and  his  servants  have 
had  much  consolation  in  their  labors,  by  seeing  sinners 
powerfully  convinced  of  sin,  penitents  bom  of  God,  and 
-..8.,.>c^„  ooxiviuicu  tiy  uio  opini.     uod  has  lately  been 

3 


38 


A    HISTORY    OF   THE 


[1816. 


reviving  his  work  in  various  places,  particularly  in  the 
city  of  Bristol,  at  Salisbury,  <fec. :    in  the  former  place 
several  hundreds  have  been  brought  to  the  knowledge  of 
God  their  Saviour.     We  can  assure  you  we  love  this 
*  good,  old-fashioned  religion,'  of  a  deep  conviction  for 
sin,  a  clear  sense  of  justification  by  faith,  and  entire  sanc- 
tification  of  the  soul  from  all  moral  pollution,  as  well,  if  not 
better  than  ever.     Blessed  be  the  God  and  Father  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  hath  blessed  us,  and  does  even 
now  bless  us,  with  these  spiritual  blessings  in  heavenly 
places  in  Christ  Jesus  :  and  we  ever  pray  with  increasing 
desire,  'Thy   kingdom   come.'     Our  blessed  Lord  has 
greatly  favored  us  with  success  in  our  missionary  efforts, 
particularly  in  our  new  stations  in  the  eastern  world,  Cey- 
lon, &c.,  though  this  has  been  attended  with  its  afflictive 
circumstances.     Since  the  death  of  our  venerable,  highly 
esteemed,  and  much  lamented  friend  and  brother.   Dr. 
Coke,  our  beloved  brother  Ault  has  been  removed  fro'.i  a 
sphere  of  useful  labor  to  his  great  reward.     The  other 
brethren  are  still  preserved  in  their  useful  labors.     A  Bud- 
dhist priest  of  considerable  learning  has  been  converted  to 
Christianity,  and  is  now  engaged  in  translating  the  Scrip- 
tures into  two  of  the  native  languages.     Several  Moormen 
or  Mohammedans  have  also  received  the  truth,  and  are 
becoming  useful  preachers  of  the  word  of  life  ;  and  thou- 
sands of  the  poor  heathen  flock  to  hear  the  joyful  tidings 
of  the  gospel.     Our  missionaries  have  began  to  build  a 
large  chapel,  house, school, printing-office,  <fcc.,  atColumbo, 
and   have   received   the  liberal   support   of  the   inhabit^ 
ants.     These  buildings  are  to  cost  seven  thousand  dollars, 
six  thousand  of  which  have  been  already  subscribed  by 
the  inhabitants.     We  have  lately  sent  live  more  missiona- 
ries to  that  quarter  of  the  globe,  and  one  more  is  shortly  to 
sail  for  Bombay.    Thus  the  Lord  is  enlarging  his  king- 
Goiu,  '  even  from  the  rivers  to  i 


8 


ends  of  the  earth. 


1816.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


S9 


"  Wo  rejoice  in  the  ardent  Christian  affection  you  ex- 
press toward  your  brethren  in  this  country ;  and  be  assured 
they  entertain  the  same  lively  feelings  and  sentiments  of 
brotherly  love  toward  you  and  yom:  fellow-laborers  in  the 
Lord ;  and  should  we  be  favored  virith  a  visit  from  you  or 
them,  it  would  give  us  inexpressible  pleasure  to  give  you 
the  right  hand  of  fellowship,  and  every  expression  of  our 
sincere  Christian  regard. 

"To  preserve  a  mutual  good  understanding,  and  the 
unity  of  the  Spirit,  and,  as  far  as  possible,  a  co-operation 
in  promoting  the  good  work  of  the  Lord,  we  feel  it  our 
duty  to  state  to  you  a  subject  of  local  difference,  which  to 
us  has  been  painful,  and  which  we  feel  a  delicacy  in 
stating,  but  to  which  we  are  compelled  from  the  necessity 
of  the  case,  that  the  word  of  the  Lord  be  not  hindered.    In 
consequence  of  application  being  made  to  the  British  con- 
ference from  the  society  at  Montreal,  a  missionary  was 
sent  to  that  place,  and  received  as  the  messenger  of  the 
gospel  of  peace  ;  but  we  are  sorry  to  learn  that  some  mis- 
understanding has  taken  place  between  brothers  Strong 
and  Williams,  our  missionaries,  and  brother  Ryan   your 
presiding  elder  for  Lower  Canada.     From  the  former  we 
have  received  a  statement  of  their  proceedings,  and  from 
the  latter  a  letter  of  complaint.     We  have  also  received  a 
loiter  from  brother  Bennett,  the  chairman  of  the  Nova 
Scotia  district,  who  has  visited  Montreal,  «fec.,  and  reported 
to  us  liis  proceedings.     Upon  a  review  of  the  whole,  and 
from  the  most  serious  and  deliberate  consideration,  we  are 
led  to  conclude  that,  considering  llie  relative  situation  of 
the  inhabitants  of  Montreal  and  of  Canada  to  this  country 
and  particularly  as  a  principal  part  of  the  people  appear  to' 
be  in  lavor  of  our  missionaries,  it  would  be  for  their  peace 
and  comfort,  and  the  furtherance  of  the  gospel,  for  our 

brethren  to  occupy  those  stations  «an«/.;oiK.  ♦u^  r 

4J}d  to  which  we  conceive  we  have  a  claim,  as  a  consider- 


*^  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1810. 

able  part  of  tho  money  for  building  the  chapel  and  house 
was  raised  in  this  country.     We  trust  our  American  bre- 
thren will  see  the  propriety  of  complying  with  our  wishes 
witli  respect  to  those  places ;  not  to  mention  their  political 
reflation  to  this  country,  which,  however,  is  not  of  Uttle 
importance,  for  we  are  conscious  that  their  general  habits 
and  prejudices  are  in  favor  of  English  preachers,  being 
more  congenial  to  their  views  and  feeUngs,  which  should 
certainly  be  consulted,  and  will  tend  to  facilitate  the  suc- 
cess of  the  gospel,  and  (heir  spiritual  prosperity.     As  your 
and  our  object  is  mutually  to  diffuse  the  knowledge  of  Him 
whose  kingdom  is  not  of  this  world,  and  by  every  possible 
means  U)  promote  the  immortal  interests  of  men,  let  us  not 
contend— we  have  one  Master,  even   Christ— but   give 
.  place  to  each  other,  that  tho  word  of  the  Lord  may  have 
i'roe  course,  run,  and  be  glorified.     We  cannot  but  hope, 
that  from  tho  contiguity  of  the  labors  of  the  brethren  be- 
longing to  the  two  conferences,  the  spirit  of  unity  and  lovo 
will  be  promoted,  and  by  this  measure  a  more  perfect 
reciprocal  intercourse  established.     As  you  have  kindly 
invited  our  esteemed  brethren,  Messrs.  Black  and  Bennett, 
to  take  a  seat  in  your  conference,  we  have  directed  them 
to  pay  you  a  visit  at  Baltimore  for  this  purpose,  and  to 
amicably  arrange  and  settle  this  business,  whom  we  trust 
you  will  receive  as  our  representatives  and  as  brethren. 

"  Praying  that  our  mutual  love  may  abound  yet  more 
and  more,  and  that  we  may  ever  enjoy  and  rejoice  in  each 
other's  prosperity,  till  the  whole  earth  is  filled  with  the 
glory  of  God,  we  remain  your  truly  affectionate  brethren 
in  Christ  Jesus. 

(Signed  for  and  in  behalf  of  the  committee.) 

"James  Wood,  Treasurer^ 
Joseph  Benson, 
'  James  Buckley,  Secretary." 


1816.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  41 

This  letter,  together  with  the  written  and  verbal 
communications  from  the  brethren  above  mentioned, 
was  referred  to  a  committee,  and  the  following  report, 
which  was  concurred  in  by  the  conference,  will  show 
the  result  of  their  labors  : — 

"  The  committee  appointed  by  the  General  Conference 
to  (wnfer  with  Messrs.  Black  and  Bennett,  delegates  ap- 
pointed by  the  London  Methodist  Missionary  Society  to 
represent  the  British  connection  to  this  conference,  and, 
if  possible,  to  make  an  amicable  adjustment  of  certain  dif 
ferences  between  our  Church  and  the  British  connection, 
relative  to  Upper  and  Lower  Canada,  bog  leave  to  submit 
the  following  report,  viz. : — 

"1.  Your  committee  have  had  several  friendly  inter- 
views with  the  above-mentioned  delegates  on  those  sub- 
jects, and  they  are  happy  to  state  that  there  appears  to  be 
an  earnest  desire  to  have  all  existing  difficulties  terminated 
to  the  peace  and  mutual  satisfaction  of  both  parties,  and  to 
perpetuate  the  Christian  union  and  good  understanding 
which  have  hitherto  existed. 

"  2.  It  appears  from  written  communications,  as  well  as 
from  verbal  testimony,  that  unhappy  dissensions  have  taken 
place  in  Montreal  between  certain  missionar.  j  sent  (at 
the  request  of  a  few  official  members  of  the  society  in  that 
place,  in  time  of  the  last  war)  by  the  London  Missionary 
Society,  and  some  American  preachers,  which  have  ter- 
minated in  the  division  of  that  society. 

"  3.  Although  the  late  hostilities  between  the  two  coun- 
tries separated,  for  some  time,  those  provinces  from  the 
immediate  superintendenoy  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church  in  America,  yet  all  the  circuits  (except  Quebec) 
wore  as  regularly  supplied  as  circumstances  would  admit 
of  with  American  preachers. 

"  4.  It    furthermore   annAni-.«i.    frnm   urritfan    a^A   ,r^.u»i 


'rr~ 


Zl        tlilli 


8 


42 


A    HI8T0RV    OF   THE 


[1816. 

communications,  that  it  is  the  desire  of  the  great  majority 
of  the  people  in  Upper  and  Lower  Canada  to  be  supplied, 
as  heretofore,  with  preachers  from  the  United  States. 

"  5.  In  the  two  provinces  there  are  twelve  circuits  and 
one  station,  (Montreal,)  which  have  eleven  meeting-houses, 
which  have  been  hitherto  supplied  by  American  preachers. 
"  These  things  being  duly  considered,  together  with  the 
contiguity  of  those  provinces  to  the  western  and  northern 
parts  of  the  United  States,  your  committee  respectfully 
submit  the  following  resolutions  ; 

"  Resolved  by  the  delegates  of  the  Annual  Conference 
of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  in  General  Conference 
assembled, 

"  1.  That  we  cannot,  consistently  with  our  duty  to  the 
societies  of  our  charge  in  the  Canadas,  give  up  any  part 
of  them,  or  any  of  our  chapels  in  those  provinces,  to  the 
superintendence  of  the  British  connection. 

"  2.  That  a  respectful  letter  be  addressed  to  the  London 
Methodist  Missionary  Society,  explaining  the  reasons  for 
the  above  resolution."  » 

A  letter  was  accordingly  addressed  to  the  missionary 
committee  of  London,  explanatory  of  the  reasons  which 
led  to  the  conclusions  stated  in  the  above  report,  and 
requesting  thpt  the  preachers  of  each  connection  might 
be  permitted  to  occupy  in  peace  their  respective  fields 
of  labor;  but,  whatever  might  have  been  the  pacific 
disposition  of  the  two  bodies  of  Methodists  in  Great 
Britain  and  the  United  States,  and  however  sincere  and 
ardent  their  desire  for  mutual  good  understanding  and 
brotherly  affection,  there  were  local  feelings  existing  in 
the  societies  in  some  places,  particularly  in  Montreal 
and  Kingston,  which  could  not  be  so  easily  satisfied ; 
hence  the  society  in  the  former  place  remained  in  a 

divided  state,  one  party  being  supolied  from  Enffland- 

3  -        . 


1816.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  43 

and  the  other  from  the  United  States :  and  thus  Judah 
continued  to  vex  Ephraim,  until,  after  a  lapse  of  some 
years,  an  amicable  arrangement  was  made  between  the 
British  and  American  connection.     It  was  beyond  all 
controversy  that  the  present  state  of  the  work  required 
an  additional  number  of  bishops.    Accordingly  the  com- 
mittee on  the  episcopacy  reported  as  follows  in  reference 
to  this  subject,  which  was  concurred  in  by  the  conference : 
"  1.  It  is  the  opinion  of  your  committee  that  the  state 
of  the  superintendency,  in  consequence  of  the  ever  to  be 
lamented  death  of  our  venerable  father.  Bishop  Asbury, 
and  the  impaired  state  ol  tiie  health  of  Bishop  M'Ken- 
dree,  and  the  increasing  extent  of  the  work,  is  such  as 
to  require  immediate  and  adequate  strengthening;" 
and  hence  they  recommended  that  "two  additional 
bisiiops   be  elected   and  consecrated.'     On  May  14, 
Enoch  George  and  Robert  Richford  Roberts  were 
elected  by  ballot,  the  former  having  fifty-seven  and  the 
latter  fifty-five  votes  out  of  one  hundred  and  six  that 
were  cast.     They  were  accordingly  consecrated  in  due 
form,  and,  after  the  adjournment  of  conference,  entered 
upon  their  peculiar  work  with  zeal  and  energy. 

The  effect  of  the  numerous  locations  on  the  ministry, 
and  the  want  of  more  efficieiu  means  for  its  intellectual 
miprovement,  induced  this  conference  to  appoint  a  com- 
mittee to  take  these  subjects  into  consideration,  and,  if 
practicable,  provide  an  adequate  remedy.  And  as  the 
report  of  this  committee,  and  the  action  of  the  confer- 
ence  thereon,  had  a  very  important  bearing  upon  these 
mterests,  the  report,  as  it  was  adopted  by  the  conference, 
IS  given  entire. 

.  ^' J^«  committee  o^  ways  and  means,  appointed  to  provide 
s  more  ai»ple  su|.poii  of  thtj  mimstiy  among  us,  to  prevent 

3 


44 

•  A   HISTORY   OP   THE  [1816. 

locations,  and  the  admission  of  improper  persons  into  the 
itmerancy,  have  taken  the  subjects  committed  to  them 
under  serious  consideration.  They  have  found,  with  se- 
nous  concern  and  deep  regret,  that,  in  the  present  state  of 
things,  there  exist  many  evils,  which  threaten  to  under- 
mine that  system  of  itinerating  preaching  which,  under 
he  blessing  of  God,  has  been  so  successful  in  spreading 
the  gospel  of  Jesus  Christ.  ^ 

"1.  The  small  pittance  allowed  to  ou  chers  and 

m  many  places,  the  inefficient  means  used  to  insure'even 
that  we  conceive  to  be  one  reason  why  so  many  of  our 
useful  mmisters  are  induced  to  locate.  Groaning  under 
'the  pressure  of  poverty  now,  and  looking  forward  to  a  su- 
perannuated  state,  without  adequate  means  afforded  them 
lor  a  comfortable  support  in  the  decline  of  life,  they  sink 
under  the  melancholy  prospect,  and  reluctantly  retire  from 
the  field,  that  they  may  provide  a  morsel  of  bread  for  them- 
selves, their  wives,  and  children. 

"  2.  The  many  locations,  from  these  and  other  causes, 
have  a  manifest  tendency  to  weaken  and  embarrass  the 
Itinerancy,  by  obliging  us  to  fill  up  the  vacancies  with  per- 
sons not  competent  to  the  work  assigned  them,  and  to 
commit  the  administration,  in  some  of  its  important 
branches,  to  the  hands  of  young  and  inexperienced  men. 

J.    1  o  the  same  causes  we  may  attribute  V  e  many 
partial  locations,  that  is,  families  of  traveling  p.  achers 
which  are  immovably  fixed.     Their  scanty  allowance  fur- 
nishes  an  excuse  (whether  justifiable  or  not,  your  com- 
mittee presume  not  to  determine)  for  combining  farmin.. 
mercantile  business,  &c.,  with  the  ministration  of  God^' 
word      This  practice,  in  the  opinion  of  your  committee, 
exceedingly  embatrasses  the  general  super! ntendency,  in 
the  frequent  changes  which,  in  the  discharge  of  its  duty 
arc  unavoidable.     In  consequence  of  this,   either  those 
whose  families  are  thus  located  must  be  subject  to  distant 


1816.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


40 


removals  from  their  families,  or  others  must  be  exposed  to 
the  inconvenience  of  frequent  and  distant  removals,   to 
make  way  for  those  who  are  in  this  partially  located  state. 
"  4.  We  perceive  a  manifest  defect  among  us,  occa- 
sioned in  some  measure  by  the  multiplicity  of  locations,  in 
regard  to  ministerial  quahfications.     Although  a  collegiate 
education  is  not,  by  your  committee,  deemed  essential  to  a 
gospel  ministry,  yet  it  appears  absolutely  necessary  for 
every  minister  of  the  gospel  to  study  to  show  himself  ap- 
proved  unto   God,  a  workman  that  needeth  not  to  be 
ashamed.     Every  one,  therefore,  who  would  be  useful  as 
a  minister  in  the  Church,  should,  to  a  sincere  piety  and 
laudable  zeal  for  the  salvation  of  souls,  add  an  ardent  de- 
sire for  useful  knowledge ;— he  should  strive  by  every 
lawful  means  to  imbue  his  mind  with  every  science  which 
is  intimately  connected  with  the  doctrine  of  salvation  bv 
Jesus  Christ,  and  which  AviU  enable  him  to  understand 
and  illustrate  the  sacred  Scriptures.     But  the  early  de- 
parture of  many  from  the  work  of  the  ministry  among  us, 
of  those  whose  piety,  zeal,  talent,  and  mental  improve- 
ment justified  the  expectation  of  their  extensive  usefulness 
m  the  Church,  and  the  manifest  indifference  of  some  who 
remain  with  us  to  this  important  branch  of  ministerial  duty 
thus  stripping  the  Church  of  some  of  its  brightest  orna- 
ments, not  only  exposes  her  nakedness,  hut  loudly  calls  for 
the  prompt  and  vigorous  interference  of  the  General  Con- 
ference.    To  obvriate  these  evils,  and  to  secure  to  the 
Church  a  succession  of  holy,  zealous,  and  useful  minis- 
ters, becomes  at  this  time,  in  the  humble  opinion  of  your 
committee,  the  imperious  duty  of  this  conference.     To 
accomplish  these  very  desirable  objects,  your  committee 
beg  leave  to  recommend  the  following  resolutions,  viz.  :— 
"  Resolved,  1.  That  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  presiding 
elders  and  preachers  to  use  their  influence  to  carry  the 
rule  of  Discinhne  relatinir  to  hinl/1in,r  o«j  ,^,„*; —  i 

3 


^®  A   HISTORY  OP   THE  [1816, 

for  accommodation  of  preachers  and  families  into  effect. 
In  order  to  this,  each  quarterly  meeting  conference  shall 
appoint  a  committee,  (miless  other  measures  have  been 
adopted,)  who,  with  the  aid  and  advice  of  the  preachers 
and  presiding  elder,  shall  devise  such  means  as  may  seem 
fit  to  raise  moneys  for  that  purpose.  And  we  furthermore 
recommend  to  each  annual  conference  to  make  special 
mquiry  of  its  members  respecting  this  part  of  their  duty. 

"2.  That  those  preachers  who  refuse  to  occupy  the 
houses  which  may  be  provided  for  them  on  the  stations 
and  circmts  where  they  are  from  time  to  time  appointed, 
shall  be  allowed  nothing  for  house-rent,  nor  receive  any 
thmg  more  than  their  simple  quarterage  for  themselves, 
wives,  and  children,  and  their  traveling  expenses.    Never- 
theless, this  rule  shall  not  apply  to  those  preachers  whose 
families  are  either  established  within  the  bounds  of  their 
circuits  or  stations,  or  are  so  situated  that,  in  tne  judgment 
of  the  stewards,  or  the  above-mentioned  committee,  it  is 
not  necessary  for  the  benefit  of  the  circuit  to  remove  them. 
"  3.  That  that  part  of  the  Discipline  which  relates  to 
the  temporal  economy  of  our  Church.be  so  altered  as  to 
make  the  annual  allowance  of  preachers  one  hundred  dol- 
lars, and  that  of  their  wives  and  widows  one  hundred 
dollars. 

"  4.  That  there  be  a  committee  appointed  by  the  quar- 
terly meeting  conference  of  every  circuit  and  station,  con- 
sisting of  members  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church 
whose  duty  it  shall  be  to  make  an  estimate  of  the  amount 
necessary  to  furnish  fuel  and. table  expenses  of  the  family 
or  families  of  the  preachers  stationed  with  them,  and  that 
the  stewards  shall  provide,  by  such  means  as  they  shall 
devise,  to  meet  such  expenses,  in  money  or  otherwise  •— 
provided  that  the  quarterly  allowance  of  the  preachers 
shall  first  be  paid  by  the  stewards. 

"  5.  That  there  be  a  meeting  in  every  district  of  one 


1816.J  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  *  47 

Steward  from  each  sation  and  circuit,  to  be  selected  from 
among  the  stewards  by  the  quarterly  conference,  whose 
duty  It  shall  be,  by  and  with  the  advice  of  the  presiding 
elders  who  shall  preside  in  such  meeting,  to  take  into 
consideration  the  general  state  of  the  district  in  regard  to 
temporalities,  and  to  furnish  a  house  and  provision  for  the 
presiding  elders'  families,  in  conformity  to  the  first  and 
fourth  resolutions  of  this  report. 

"  In  order  more  effectually  to  provide  for  the  distressed 
traveling,  superannuated,  and  supernumerary  preachers 
their  wives,  widows,  and  children,  your  committee  ear' 
nestiy  recommend, 

"6.  That  each  annual  conference,  in  such  way  and 
manner  as  they  may  think  proper,  raise  a  fund  for  these 
pui^ses,  according  to  the  8th  article  of  the  5th  section 
of  the  temporal  economy  of  our  Church. 

"  Thiidcing  the  Discipline  sufficiently  explicit  on  those 
points  which  relate  to  the  Christian  experience,  practice, 
&c,  of  preachers,  your  committee  deem  it  needless  to  add 
any  thing  on  these  subjects.  But  they  beg  leave  to  re- 
commend, 

"  7.  That  it  be  the  duty  of  the  bishop  or  bishops,  or  a 
committee  which  they  may  appoint  in  each  annual  con- 
ference,  to  point  out  a  course  of  reading  and  study  proper 
to  be  pursued  by  candidates  for  the  ministry ;  and  the  pre- 
siding elders,  whenever  a  person  is  presented  as  a  candi- 
date for  the  ministry,  shaU  direct  him  to  those  studies 
which  have  been  thus  recommended.     And  before  any 
such  candidate  shall  be  received  into  full  connection  he 
shall  give  satisfactory  evidence  respecting  his  knowledge 
of  those  particular  subjects  which  have  been  recommended 
to  his  consideration." 

The  adoption  of  this  rf;port,  it  is  believed,  had  a  salu 
tary  influence  upon  the  ministry  and  membershin.  h« 

r;    ~j 

3 


48 


A   HISTORY    OF   THE 


[1816. 


exciting  a  spirit  of  liberality,  and  leading  to  a  mor6 
vigorous  action  in  respect  to  acquiring  a  greater  amount 
of  ministerial  qualification.  » 

From  that  time  forth  a  regular  course  of  study  has 
been  prescribed  by  the  bishops  for  those  on  trial  in  the 
annual  conferences,  to  which  the  candidates  must  at- 
tend, and  give  satisfactory  evidence  of  their  attainments, 
especially  in  theological  science,  before  they  can  be  ad- 
mitted into  full  membership    as  itinerant  ministers. 
Though  the  course  of  study  at  first  was  very  limited  in 
some  of  the  conferences,  and  the  examinations  compa- 
ratively superficial,  it  has  baen  gradually  enlarged  and 
improved,  so  much  so  as  to  require  a  great  compass  of 
knowledge  to  be  able  to  pass  an  approved  examination. 
Still  there  is  much  wanting  to  give  that  thorough  train- 
ing which  is  most  def  irable  for  the  full  and  profitable 
development  of  the  mental  powers,  and  their  energetic 
application  in  the  field  of  usefulness. 

A  committee  of  safety  was  also  appointed,  who  re- 
ported that  doctrines  in  some  instances  adverse  to  the 
standards  of  our  Church  were  insinuating  themselves 
among  us— that  the  building  churches  with  pews  tc 
rent  or  sell  \7as  gaining  an  ascendency  in  some  places, 
and  that  the  rules  on  dress  and  the  manner  of  ministe- 
rial support  were  but  negligently  enforced  :  whereupon 
the  following  resolutions  were  adopted : — 

«  1 .  Resolved  by  the  delegates  of  the  annual  conferences 
in  General  Conference  issembled,  That  the  General  Con- 
ference do  earnestly  recommend  the  superintendents  to 
make  the  most  careful  inquiry  in  all  the  annual  confer- 
ences, in  order  to  ascertain  whether  any  doctrines  are 
embraced  or  preached  contrary  to  our  established  Articles 
3 


i 


1816.1  METHODIST  EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  49 

of  Faith;  and  to  use  their  influence  to  prevent  the  exist- 
ence and  circulation  of  all  such  doctrines. 

"2.  Resolved,  &c.,  That  it  be  specially  recommended 
to  all  the  presiding  elders  and  stationed  and  circuit  preach- 
ers to  take  particular  care  that  aU  our  housea  of  worship 
be  secured  on  the  princi^Jles  of  our  deed  of  settlement,  in 

the  form  of  Discipline. 

«  3.  Resolved,  &c..  That  the  manner  of  building  houses 

of  rehgious  worship  with  pews  is  contrary  to  the  rules  of 

our  economy,  and  inconsistent  with  the  interests  of  our 

societies. 

"  4.  Resolved,  &c.,  That  it  is  the  opinion  of  this  confer- 
ence that  the  practice  of  assessing  and  coUecting  axes  by 
civil  law  for  the  support  of  the  ministers  of  the  gospel  is 
contrary  to  the  temporal  economy  of  our  Church,  and  in- 
consistent with  apostolic  example  ;  that  it  goes  to  impeJt, 
the  progress  of  experimental  religion  and  destroy  the  itine- 
rant plan.  And  the  superintendents  with  all  the  annual 
conferences  are  hereby  desired  to  take  such  measures  as 
m_  Aeir  judgment  will  most  effectually  cure   such   an 

"5    Resolved,  &c.  That  the  superintendents,  together 
with  all  the  presiding  elders  and  assistant  preachers,  be, 
and  hereby  are,  earnestly  requested  to  carry  into  effect,  in 
their  several  charges,  our  rules  on  dress,  family  worship 
love-teasts,  class  and  society  meetings. 

"  6.  Resolved,  &c.,  That  no  preacher  having  the  charge 
01  a  circuit  shaH  be  allowed  to  divide  or  in  any  way  to 
lessen  the  circuit,  without  the  consent  and  advice  of  the 
presiding  elder. 

"7.  Resolved.  &c.,  That  it  be,  and  heieby  is,  recom- 
mended  to  the  bishops  and  presiding  elders,  in  the  general 
and  particular  oversight  of  their  charges,  to  guard  against 
such  divisions  and  reductions  of  districts  and  circuit,  as 
in  ux  IV  judgment  may  be  inconsistent  with  the  temporal 

*  3 


do 


A   HISTORY  OF  THB 


[1816 


and  spiriturf  interests  of  our  societies,  and  the  prescrration 
of  the  energies  of  our  itinerant  system." 

No  part  of  this  report  was  incorporated  in  the  Disci- 
pline, but  it  was  ordered  that  it  should  be  recorded  on 
the  journals  of  the  several  annual  conferences,  and,  so 
far  as  relates  to  the  building  of  churches  with  slips  to 
rent  or  sell,  it  has  remained  a  dead  letter  in  many  parts 
of  our  work.  The  practice  of  renting  pews  at  that  time 
was  limited  to  a  few  places,  but  it  has  since  extended 
more  and  more  through  the  eastern  and  some  of  the 
more  northern  conferences,  the  people  pleading  the  ne- 
cessity of  the  case  for  a  departure  in  this  respect  from 
the  primitive  usage  of  Methodism. 

It  may  be  regretted  that  the  state  of  society  requires 
us  to  lelinquish  the  mode  of  building  churches  with  free 
seats ;  but  as  it  is  not  pretended  to  be  in  itself  sinful  to 
rent  or  sell  the  seats,  the  expediency  of  the  measure 
must  be  determined  by  the  probable  utility  in  any  given 
place  of  resorting  to  this  method  of  providing  houses  of 
worship.  And  when  the  question  is  put,  "Shall  we 
have  such  a  house  or  none?"  as  is  the  case  in  many 
parts  of  our  country,  it  is  believed  that  hesitancy  should 
be  at  an  end,  and  that  we  should  be  guilty  of  a  derelic- 
tion of  duty  were  we  to  refuse  to  avail  ourselves  of  this 
means  to  provide  houses  in  which  we  may  preach  the 
gospel  to  sinners. 

It  is,  however,  admitted,  that  houses  with  free  seats, 
when  they  can  be  built  and  paid  for,  and  the  people 
induced  to  occupy  them,  are  to  be  preferred;  but  if 
othei-wise,  it  appears  like  an  inexcusable  pertinacity  in 
so  cleaving  to  a  usage  not  expressly  enjoined  in  Scrip- 
ture, as  to  refuse  to  preach  the  gospel  and  administer 
3 


1816.] 


METHODIST  EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


51 


the  ordinances  in  a  house  of  worship  merely  because 
the  seats  are  rented. 

Sundry  memorials  from  local  preachers  were  pre- 
sented to  this  General  Conference,  praying  for  an 
enlargement  of  their  privileges  :  1.  To  have  a  repre- 
sentation in  the  councils  of  the  Church :  2.  Be  permitted 
a  share  in  the  administration  of  the  discipline ;  and,  3. 
To  stipulate  with  the  people  who  might  wish  'for  their 
services  for  a  certain  amount  of  salary.  The  commit- 
tee appointed  to  take  these  memorials  into  consideration 
reported  as  follows : — 

«  Your  committee  are  of  opinion  that  the  first  request  is 
mconsistfent  with  the  constitution  of  the  General  Confer- 
ence ;-.that  the  second  is  inexpedient ;— that  as  to  the 
third,  provision  is  already  made  for  the  relief  of  local 
preachers  in  certain  cases,  and  it  is  the  opinion  of  the 
committee  that  this  General  Conference  ought  not  to  make 
any  further  provision,  except  as  is  hereinafter  recom- 
mended. 

"  From  an  attentive  inquiry  into  the  state  of  the  local 
preachers  in  all  parts  of  our  vast  continent,  we  are  happy 
to  be  able  to  say,  that  the  great  body  of  that  very  respecta- 
ble and  useful  class  of  our  brethren  are,  in  our  judament 
the  firm  friends  and  supporters  of  our  doctrines,  discipline' 
and  Church  government;  and  that  by  far  the  greater  part 
of  them  would  be  much  grieved  at  any  radical  changes  in 
our  present  regulations.     But  upon  examining  those'parts 
of  our  Discipline  which  respect  local  preachers,   your 
committee  beg  leave  to  recommend  the  following  amend- 
ments." " 

On  this  recommendation  the  section  relating  to  local 
preachers  was  so  altered  as  to  read  as  follows  ;— 
«  Before  any  person  shall  be  licensed  to  preach  as  s 


^2  A    HISTORY   OF    THE  [1816. 

local  preacher  among  us,  he  shall  bring  a  recommendation 
from  the  society  or  class  of  which  he  is  a  member,  and  be 
personally  examined  before  the  quarterly  meeting  confer- 
ence by  the  presiding  elder,  or,  in  his  absence,  by  the 
preacher  having  the  charge,  touching  his  acquaintance 
with  the  doctrines  of  our  Church,  to  which  he  shall  de- 
clare his  assent,  together  with  his  gifts  and  grace  for 
preaching ;  and  if  he  be  approved  by  the  quarterly  meet- 
ing conference  in  these  respects,  and  they  believe  he  will 
be  generally  acceptable  and  useful  as  a  preacher,  he  shall 
then  receive  a  license,  signed  by  the  presiding  elder,  or, 
in  his  absence,  by  the  preacher  having  charge,  which 
license  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  such  local  preacher  to  have 
annually  renewed." 

After  a  few  other  verbal  alterations,  the  section  pro- 
vided as  follows : — 

"  Whenever  a  local  preacher  shall  remove  from  one 
circuit  to  another,  he  shall  procure  from  the  presiding 
elder  of  the  district,  or  tlie  preacher  having  the  charge  of 
the  circuit,  a  certificate  of  his  official  stariding  in  the 
Church  at  the  time  of  his  removal,  without  which  he  shall 
not  he  received  as  a  local  preacher  in  another  place." 

The  followinjr  item  respecting  the  manner  in  which 
oxhorters  should  receive  authority  to  exercise  their  gifts 
was  ordered  to  be  inserted  in  the  Discipline,  and  was 
so  done  accordingly.  The  preacher  in  charge,  among 
other  duties,  was  to  have  authority 

"  To  license  such  persons  as  he  may  judge  proper  to 
officiate  as  exhorters  in  the  Church,  provided  no  person 
shall  be  licensed  without  the  consent  of  a  leaders'  meet- 
ing, or  of  the  class  of  which  he  is  a  member,  where  no 
leaders'  meeting  is  held  ;  and  the  exhorters  so  authorized 
sball  be  subject  to  the  annual  examination  of  character  in 
the  quarterly  meeting  conference,  and  have  their  license 


om  one 


1816.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  53 

annually  renewed  by  the  presiding  elder,  or  the  preacher 
having  the  charge,  if  approved  of  by  the  quarterly  meeting 
conference."  ° 

That  part  of  the  Discipline  which  relates  to  circuit 
stewards  was  so  amended  as  to  make  them  responsible 
to  the  quarterly  meeting  conference  "for  the  faithful 
performance  of  their  duties." 

Hitherto  it  had  been  the  duty  of  an  annual  confer- 
ence, if  It  had  any  surplus  money  on  hand  after  paying 
Its  own  claimant,  to  send  it  to  the  next  conference 
This  regulation  was  so  altered  at  this  conference  as  to 
make  it  the  duty  of  the  annual  conference  to  "  send 
such  surplus  forward  to  that  conference  they  judge  tc 
be  most  necessitous." 

As  the  two  bishops  who  had  been  elected  and  conse 
crated  at  this  conference  were  ifien  of  families,  and  aa 
no  provision  had  been  made  in  the  Discipline  for  the 
support  of  such  families,  it  was  ordered  that  the  "  book 
agents,  in  conjunction  with  the  book  committee  in 
New- York,  be  authorized  to  estimate  the  sum  to  defray 
the  necessary  expenses  of  the  bishops'  families,  for  which 
they  shall  be  authorized  to  draw  on  the  editor  and 
general  book  steward." 

Joshua  Soule  and  Thomas  Mason  were  elected  book 
agents,  and  the  conference  renewed  the  order  for  the 
publication  of  the  Methodist  Magazine,  in  monthly  num- 
bers of  forty  octavo  pages  each,  and  required  each  an- 
nual conference  to  appoint  a  committee  of  three  to 
receive  and  forward  communications,  and  otherwise  to 
furnish  materials  for  the  work.  The  Magazine,  how- 
ever,  was  not  commenced  till  1818,  and  the  appoint- 
nient  of  these  committees  answered  no  valuable  punH)se. 

as  but  little  aid  who  niTnrt^c.A  U.r  «k_„  ^-  .1  1.        •         ' 

„....,,,.  .^  _.  ;,siciii  lu  uje  euitors. 

3 


54 


A    HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1817. 


These  include  all  the  acts  of  this  conference  worthy 
of  public  record,  or  which  went  to  affect  the  general 
administration.  On  the  24th  of  May  the  business 
closed  by  adjournment,  to  meet  again  in  the  city  of 
Baltimore,  May  1,  1820. 


CHAPTER  IV. 

From  the  Close  of  the  Qeneral  Conference  of  1816  to  the  Commence- 
ment of  the  General  Conference  of  1830. 

1817.  There  were,  by  an  act  of  the  foregoing  Ge- 
neral Conference,  two  new  conferences,  namely,  Missis- 
sippi and  Missouri,  added  to  the  number,  making  in  all 
eleven  annual  conferences  to  be  attended  by  the  three 
bishops.     Though  some  had  contended  that  it  would 
be  most  convenient  to  divide  the  episcopal  supervision 
so  as  to  apportion  a  specified  district  of  country  to  each 
bishop,  yet  the  majority  thought  it  most  advisable  to 
leave  these  things  to  be  regulated  by  the  bishops  them- 
selves, as  they  might  judge  most  convenient  for  an  effi- 
cient oversight  of  the  whole  work  ;  and  they  concludetl 
that  this  object  could  be  accomplished  most  easily  and 
energetically  by  an  interchange  of  labors,  so  that  each 
bishop  should  visit  all  the  conferences  at  least  once  in 
the  four  years.     This,  it  was  contended,  would  best 
answer  the  character  of  a  general  itinerating  superin- 
tcndency,  prevent  local  interests  and  jealousies  from 
springing  up,  and  tend  most  effectually  to  preserve  that 
homogeneousness  of  character  and  reciprocity  of  bro- 
therly feeling  by  which   Methodism  had  been   and 

a 


1817.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  53 

should  be  ever  distinguished.  The  bishops  ac-cordingly 
commenced  their  labors  on  this  plan,  and,  as  far  as 
health  and  other  existing  circumstances  would  allow, 
steadily  pursued  it  until  the  close  of  their  quadrennial 
term. 

The  "Tract  Society  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church"  was  formed  this  year,  by  some  members  of 
our  Church,  with  a  view  to  furnish  the  poorer  class  of 
the  community  with  religious  reading.    It  is  true  that 
a  smaU  society,  managed  by  a  few  pious  and  benevo- 
lent females,  had  been  formed  a  short  time  previously, 
but  Its  operations  were  extremely  limited.     The  society 
now  formed  took  a  wider  range,  and  commenced  pub- 
lishing Us  tracts  and  distributing  them  with  spirit  and 
energy.     It  has  gone  on  from  that  time  to  the  present, 
mcreasmg  the  number  and  variety  of  its  tracts,  and  en- 
larging the  sphere  of  its  operations ;  and  has  done  much 
good  by  diffusing  abroad  the  truths  of  the  gospel,  by 
issuing  doctrinal,  experimental,  and  practical  illustra- 
tions of  the  Holy  Scriptures. 

This  method  of  scattering  among  the  great  mass  of 
the  people,  in  the  cheapest  possible  form,  and  in  a  small 
compass,  religious  knowledge,  was  begun  by  Mr.  Wee- 
ley  at  an  early  period  of  his  ministry,  and  was  one  of 
the  means  to  which  he  resorted  to  effect  the  reformation 
and  salvation  of  the  world.  Under  date  of  Dec.  18 
1745,  he  says:  "We  had  within  a  short  time  given 
away  some  thousands  of  little  tracts  among  the  common 
F)eople.  And  it  pleased  God  hereby  to  provoke  others 
to  jealousy.  Insomuch  that  the  lord  mayor  had  ordered 
a  large  quantity  of  papers,  dissuading  from  cursing  and 
swearing,  to  be  printed  and  distributed  to  the  train- 
band.    And  this  dav  An  Knf^taot  a^^^^i  *^  n ^ 

3 


56 


A   HISTORY   OF    THE 


[1817 


ance  was  given  at  every  church  door,  in  or  near 
London,  to  every  person  who  came  out ;  and  one  left  at 
the  house  of  every  householder  who  was  absent  from 
church.    I  doubt  not  but  God  gave  a  blessing  there- 
with."   Here  was  an  example  for  the  distribution  of 
tracts  long  before  any  tract  society  existed  either  in 
Great  Britain  or  America ;  and  Mr.  Wesley  continued 
the  practice  from  that  time  forward  with  unexampled 
diligence,  furnishing  those  who  were  willing  to  aid  him 
in  this  good  method  of  «  sowing  the  seed  of  the  king- 
dom" with  short  and  pithy  tracts,  such  as  "A  Word  to 
the   Drunkard,"  ''  I  Word  to  the  Swearer,"  to  the 
"Smuggler,"  to  the  "Sabbath-breaker,"  (fee,  &c.,  for 
gratuitous  distribution. 

This  method,  so  admirably  adapted  to  bring  religious 
instruction  within  the  reach  of  all  classes  of  men,  but 
more  especially  the  poor,  and  those  who  have  little  time 
and  less  inclination  to  read,  was  afterward  adopted  by 
Miss  Hannah  More,  by  which  she  contributed  much 
to  check  the  progress  of  infidelity,  which  about  that 
time  threatened  to  deluge  the  land.     Following  these 
examples,  others  had  resorted  to  the  same  means  for 
•  diffusir-g  religious  truth  more  effectually  among  the 
people,  both  in  Europe  and  America.     And,  as  we  have 
before  seen.  Bishop  Asbury  had  done  much  by  his  in- 
dividual exertions  in  the  same  way.     From  a  know- 
ledge of  the  good  effects  resulting  from  this  practice  at 
the  time  of  which  we  now  speak,  a  combination  of  ef- 
fort was  made  by  forming  the  Tract  Society  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  which  has  resulted  most 
beneficially  to  the  best  interests  of  mankind.     After  a 
few  years  of  experiment,  the  whole  concern,  by  an  ami- 
cable arrangement,  was  transferred  to  the  book  agency, 

it 


1817.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


67 


and  thenceforward  it  has  been  conducted  as  a  part  and 
pnrcei  of  that  establishment. 

The  records  within  my  reach  do  not  enable  me  to 
notice  any  particular  enlargement  of  the  work  in  the 
new  countries,  nor  special  revivals  in  other  places. 
There  was,  however,  a  gradual  increase  in  many 
places,  and  an  extension  of  the  circuits  in  others,  as 
may  be  seen  by  an  inspection  of  the  numbers  in  Church 
fellowship. 

Fifty-two  preachers  located  this  year,  fourteen  were 
returned  supernumerary,  thirty-eight  superannuated,  two 
had  been  expelled,  one  withdrawn,  and  five  had  died. 

Among  those  who  had  entered  their  rest  the  past 
year  was  the  Rev.  Jesse  Lee.  He  was  born  in  Prince 
George's  county,  in  the  state  of  Virginia,  in  1758.  His 
parents  were  respectable,  and  they  gave  him  that  sort 
of  education  which  it  was  common  in  those  days  to  be- 
stow on  boys  not  destined  for  any  learned  profession. 
In  the  fifteenth  year  of  his  age  he  was  happily  brought 
to  the  knowledge  of  the  truth,  and  made  a  partaker  of 
the  pardoning  mercy  of  God.  In  the  year  1783,  one 
year  before  the  organization  of  our  Church,  he  entered 
the  traveling  ministry,  and  continued  in  it  with  great 
zeal  and  much  success  till  his  death,  which  happened 
on  the  12th  of  August,  1816. 

As  the  preceding  pages  of  this  History  have  recorded 
much  respecting  his  early  labors  in  the  cause  of  Christ, 
particularly  in  New  England,  it  is  not  necessary  to  re- 
capitulate them  in  this  place.  The  last  station  he  filled 
was  Annapolis,  the  metropolis  of  Maryland.  While 
here  he  attended  a  camp  meeting  near  Hillsborough,  on 
the  Eastern  Shore  of  Maryland,  where  he  preached 
twice  with  great  acceptance  and  power;  and  in  the 


68 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


fl817. 


evening  of  the  day  on  which  lie  preached  his  last  ser- 
mon he  was  seized  with  a  chill  and  fever,  from  which 
he  never  recovered.  During  this  time  he  frequently 
expressed  himself  in  terms  of  unshaken  confidence  in 
his  God,  and  on  one  occasion  shouted  aloud,  "Glorv' 
Glory !  Glory !  HaUelujah  !  Jesus  reigns !»  * 

On  the  same  evening  he  spoke  for  nearly  twenty 
minutes  with  great  ddiberation,  requesting,  among 
other  things,  that  a  letter  should  be  written  to  his  brc^ 
ther,  to  let  him  know  that  he  died  happy  in  the  Lord, 
and  also  that  he  was  fuUy  satisfied  with  the  kind  treat- 
ment he  had  received  from  brother  Sellers,  at  whose 
house  he  died. 

It  seems  that  there  had  existed  between  Jesse  Lee 
and  Bishop  M'Kendree  some  difficulty,  by  which  a  de- 
gree of  alienation  of  affection  had  taken  place,  much  to 
the  grief  of  thejr  mutual  friends.     Before,  however,  the 
former  closed  his  eyes  in  death,  he  said  to  a  friend  of 
both,  "  Give  my  respects  to  Bishop  M'Kendree,  and  tell 
him  that  I  die  in  love  with  all  the  preachers ;  that  I 
love  him,  and  that  he  lives  in  my  heart."    With  these 
sentiments  of  brotherly  love  in  his  heart,  and  a  con- 
sciousness of  the  peace  of  God  overflowing  his  soul,  this 
veteran  of  the  cross  and  minister  of  Christ  feU  asleep  in 
Jesus,  at  about  half  past  seven  o'clock  in  the  evening 
of  the  twelfth  of  September,  1816,  aged  fifty-eight  years 
having  been  in  the  itinerant  ministry  about  thirtv-thrce 
years. 

When  Jesse  Lee  joined  the  Methodists  they  were 
few  m  number,  much  despised  and  persecuted,  and  had 
therefore  to  contend  with  many  sorts  of  opposition.  Yh 
in  the  midst  of  these  things  he  boldly  espoused  the 
cause  and  early  displayed  tliat  independence  of  mind 


1817.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH,  59 

for  which  he  was  ever  afterward  characterized.  That 
same  love  of  Christ  which  was  shed  abroad  in  his 
heart  by  the  Hdy  Spirit  at  his  conversion,  impeUed 
him  forward  in  the  path  of  duty  as  a  minister  of  Jesus 
Christ,  and  enabled  him  to  bear  up  under  ihe  various 
sorts  of  reproach  which  were  usually  cast  upon  Method- 
ist preachers  in  those  days,  and  to  persevere  through 
all  in  the  discharge  of  his  high  duties  as  an  ambassador 
of  God. 

We  do  not,  indeed,  rank  him  among  ministers  of  the 
most  eminent  talents  as  a  preacher.  His  education 
was  limited,  his  reading  confined  to  a  small  circle  of 
authors,  and  his  mind  was  left  principally  to  its  own 
resources  in  handling  the  subjects  which  came  up  for 
investigation.  Yet  his  talents  were  respectable,  and 
his  burning  zeal  in  the  cause  of  Christ  compensated,  in 
some  measure  at  least,  for  the  lack  of  those  expanded 
views  which  might  have  been  acquired  by  a  more  ex- 
tended and  critical  knowledge  of  literature  and  science. 
But  being  possessed  of  strong  common  sense,  of  a  ready 
wit,  and  sound  understanding,  and  being  brought,  by 
his  extensive  travels,  into  contact  with  various  classes  of 
men,  of  different  views  and  habits,  he  treasured  up  from 
his  daily  experience  and  observation  much  useful 
knowledge,  of  which  he  could  avail  himself  in  time  of 
need,  in  defense  of  the  truths  he  preached,  and  the 
plans  of  procedure  he  had  adopted.  This  also  gave 
him  a  deep  insight  into  the  human  character,  and  quali- 
fied him  to  adapt  himself  with  admirable  facility  to  the 
variety  of  exigences  which  arose  before  him. 

His  preaching  was  chiefly  of  an  experimental  and 
practical  character ;  and  had  he  not  sometimes  lowered 
the  dignity  of  the  pulpit  by  facetious  sayings,  more 

"a 


A  HISTORY   OF   THE  [1817. 

calculated  to  "court  a  grin,  or  woo  a  smile,"  than  they 
were  to  inspire  respect  "  for  that  holy  place,  the  pulpit," 
he  might  be  more  safely  held  up  for  the  imitation  of 
others.     Though  we  by  no  means  condemn  an  inno- 
cent sally  of  wit,  nor  that  satire  which  dresses  up  vice 
and  foUy  m  their  own  native  deformity,  yet,  whenever 
either  oi  tuese  is  so  far  indulged  as  to  leave  the  mind  ' 
barren,  or  to  divert  the  soul  from  the  spirit  of  devotion, 
It  evinces  the  necessity  of  laying  a  restraint  upon  this 
witty  disposition  of  the  mind,  and  of  making  it  bow  to 
the  more  sober  dictates  of  manly  truth  and  logical 
argument.  ^ 

It  has  also  oeen  objected  to  Mr.  Lee,  that  he  evinced 
an  ambitious  mind ;    and  his  disappointment  at  not 
being  elected  a  bishop  at  the  time  Richard  Whatcoat 
was  chosen  to  that  office  has  been  adduced  as  an  evi- 
dence that  he  was  ambitious  of  office.     That  he  had 
reason  to  expect  such  an  appointment  must  be  granted. 
1  hat  Bishop  Asbury  had  designated  him,  at  one  time 
as  a  proper  person  for  that  office,  is  equally  manifest! 
And  hence,  that  he  suffered  some  degree  of  mortification 
at  hiP  non-election,  it  is  reasonable  to  suppose ;  and  that 
this  might  have  created  some  uneasiness  in  his  mind 
ana  have   biased   his  judgment  and  feelings  toward' 
those  who  were  preferred  before  him,  is  not  at  all  un- 
likely.     But  these  things  by  no  means  prove  the  exist- 
ence  of  an  unholy  ambition,  or  an  improper  thirst  for 
human  fame.     A  man  may  be  very  improperly  de- 
prived of  his  rights  by  the  unjust  imputations  of  others 
by  intrigue,  jealousy,  and  a  mean  compliance  with  the 
dictates  of  the  spirit  of  rivalry.     Without,  however,  pre- 
tending to  decide  whether  or  not  Jesse  Lee  should  have 
been  elected  to  the  office  of  a  bishop,  he  may  have 


1817.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL  CHURCH. 


61 


thought  himself  justly  entitled  to  that  distinction,  and 
hence,  from  a  simple  desire  to  be  more  extensively  use- 
ful, he  might  have  desired  it  without  subjecting  himself 
to  the  charge  of  indulging  in  a  criminal  ambition.  That 
he  was  ambitious  to  do  good  on  the  most  extensive 
scale  is  manifest  from  the  whole  tenor  of  his  conduct, 
from  the  sacrifices  he  made  in  th**.  cause  of  Christ,  and 
the  manner  in  which  he  employed  his  time  and  talents. 

But  whatever  defects  the  keen  eye  of  criticism  may 
have  discovered  in  his  character  or  conduct,  they  must 
be  ranked  among  those  venial  faults  which  are  common 
to  human  beings — defects  of  the  head,  not  of  the  heart ; 
of  education,  and  not  from  moral  or  intellectual  obli- 
quity. The  integrity  of  his  heart,  the  uprightness  of 
liis  deportment,  and  his  indefatigable  labors  in  the  best 
of  all  causes,  effectually  shield  him  from  all  imputa- 
tions of  moral  delinquency,  and  place  him  high  on  the 
pedestal  of  honor  among  his  brethren  of  that  age  of 
Methodism. 

He,  indeed,  opened  the  way  for  the  introduction  of 
Methodism  in  many  new  places,  in  doing  which  he  had 
to  contend  with  a  variety  of  difficulties  of  a  peculiar 
character  ;  and  the  firm  and  prudent  manner  in  which 
he  encountered  and  overcame  those  difficulties  evinced 
at  once  his  moral  courage,  the  purity  of  his  motives, 
and  the  strength  of  his  understanding.  In  New-Eng- 
land especially,  where  the  people  were  generally  well 
instructed  on  religious  subjects,  and  where  he  frequently 
came  in  contact  with  ministers  of  other  denominations 
whose  doctrinal  views  differed,  in  some  important 
points,  from  his  own,  he  was  called  upon  to  exercise  all 
his  ingenuity  and  patience  in  defendmg  himself  against 
his  assailants,  and  in  planting  the  standard  of  Method- 


^ 


A    HISTORY   OP   THE 


[1817. 


r  k"       u  ^f-  "^  "•'  P"""™^-     ^"^  ""'^  was  one  of 
Uie  best  schooU  m  which  a  minister  could  be  educated. 

Com,„g.„  collision  with  error  in  all  its  various  hues, 

sutne  whether  m  open  profanity,  or  of  a  secret,  dis- 
guised infidelity,  hypocrisy,  and  "  cunning  craftiness,"  a 
mmister  must  be  armed  at  all  points  to  be  able  effectu- 

tbi  hvr-f  "^'5"  '"'*^  of  hfa  opponents,  to  unmask 
the  hypocrite  to  detect  the  sophistry  of  infidelity,  and 
to  estabhsh  the  truth  upon  a  firm  foundation.    Yet  this 
was  the  work  which  Jesse  Lee,  and  others  engaged 
with  h  m  in  that  cay,  had  to  perform.    He  stood  alone 
against  a  host.     He  manfuUy  fought  the  battles  of  the 
Lord,  and  came  off  "  more  than  a  conqueror."    Hence 
his  name  is  remembered  with  gratitude  and  venemtion 
by  the  men  of  that  generation,  who  bore  v^itness  to  his 
selMenying  zeal  and  persevering  efforts  to  do  them 
good. 

Hpn^h'  VT^'u^  r'   ""'  distinguished  by  profound 
depth  of  thought,  by  a  regular  chain  of  argumentation, 
or  by  any  sudden  flights  of  oratory,  *ut  by  a  gentle  flow 
o    language,  by  apposite  appeals  to  Scripture,  by  apt 
lUustrations  from  experience  and  observation,  and  often 
by  anecdotes  which  he  had  treasured  up  from  his  ex- 
tensive travels  and  social  uitercourse  with  mankind. 
He  generally  addressed  himself  to  the  heart,  and  sought 
to  effect  a  reformation  there,  knowing  full  well  that  a 
reformation  of  life  would  necessarily  follow :   and  he 
won  the  affections  of  the  sinner  to  Jesus  Christ  by  the 
power  of  truth  addressed  to  him  in  the  persuasive  lan- 
guage of  the  gospel,  rather  than  by  awakening  his 
fears  by  the  terrors  of  the  law. 

There  was  an  engaging  variety   in  his  sermons. 


1817.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  63 

Having  surveyed,  as  far  as  he  was  able,  the  whole  field 
of  theological  truth,  he  was  qualified  to  present  it  in  all 
its  various  aspects,  without  tiring  the  hearer  with  a  dull 
monotony  of  the  same  thing  over  and  over  again.    As 
a  writer,  Jesse  Lee  is  more  distinguished  for  his  industry 
in  collating  and  his  fidehty  in  recording  facts,  than 
he  is  for  the  chasteness  and  elegance  of  his  style. 
There  is,  however,  a  pleasing  simplicity  in  the  plain 
and  unvarnished  manner  in  which  his  history  is  com- 
posed, far  more  to  be  commended  than  that  labored  and 
pompous  style  of  writing  with  which  some  authors  en- 
deavor to  decorate  their  pages.    Jesse  Lee  was  the  first 
historian  of  American  Methodism.    As  such,  he  deserves 
the  thanks  of  the  Church  for  the  faithful  and  accurate 
manner  in  which  he  has  recorded  the  events  of  his  day, 
though  it  is  evident  that  his  judgment  was  biased,  in 
some  instances,  either  by  personal  prejudice,  or  by  too 
great  a  tenacity  for  his  own  peculiar  views.     It  must 
be  confessed,  too,  that  his  history  is  wanting  in  the  va- 
riety of  incident  and  copiousness  of  detail  which  are 
essential  to  excite  interest  and  to  satisfy  the  desire  of 
those  readers  who  wish  for  full  information  respecting 
the  character,  doings,  and  progress  of  this  branch  of  the 
church  of  Christ. 

His  personal  appearance  was  respectable  and  com- 
manding; his  countenance  intelligent,  and  marked 
Avith  that  shrewdness  by  which  he  was  peculiarly  dis- 
tinguished ;  and  often  a  pleasant  smile  played  upon  his 
lips,  which  gave  an  air  of  cheerfulness  to  his  conversa- 
tion with  his  friends.  As  he  advanced  in  life  he  be- 
came quite  corpulent,  so  much  so  that  it  seemed  a  labor 
for  him  either  to  walk  or  ride.  This,  however,  did  not 
arise  from  a  luxurious  mode  of  livinff,  for  he  was  ex- 


64 


A   HISTORY    OP   THE 


[1817 


ceedingly  temperate  in  his  habits,  as  well  as  plain  in 
"IS  manners  and  dress. 

Such  was  Jesse  ],ee,  as  nearly  as  I  am  able  to  de- 
Bcnbe  him.  If  the  portraiture  be  faulty,  it  must  be 
attributed  to  want  of  skiU  in  the  painter,  and  not  fidelity 
m  the  heart  or  hand  which  guided  the  pencil.  As  such 
he  stands  enrolled  among  those  early  Methodist  preach- 
ers who  contributed  by  their  deep  piety,  their  sacrifices, 
and  labors,  to  lay  the  foundation  of  that  superstructure 
which  has  since  arisen  in  such  beauty  and  grandeur  in 
this  western  world.  And  having  "  finished  his  course, 
and  kept  the  faith,"  he  is  now  reaping  the  reward 

rastiir  ""^  ^""^  '"""^  '"  ^^^  ^""'^^  ""^  ^^""'y  ^^«'*- 

^'amuel  Waggoner,  Peter  Wyatt,  John  Van 
Schoick,  and  Stephen  Richmond  had  also  fiUed  up  the 
measure  of  their  days  in  usefulness,  and  gone  to  their 
home  m  peace. 

It  seems  proper  to  record  here  the  death  of  another 
eminent  servant  of  God  who  had  exchanged  worlds 
during  the  past  year,  namely,  the  Rev.  George  Shad^ 
ford.  As  he  had  dt^voted  several  years  to  the  service 
of  his  Master  in  America,  justice  requires  that  some 
notice  should  be  taken  of  him  in  the  history  of  our 

He  was  born  near  Lincolnshire,  at  a  place  called 
iSlotter,  m  England,  January  19,  1739.  He  was  edu^ 
cated  in  the  principles  of  the  Established  Church  ;  was 
early  taught  by  his  parents  to  read  the  Holy  Scriptures, 
the  necessity  of  prayer,  as  well  as  to  repeat  his  cate- 
chi.m ;  and  at  a  suitable  age  was  confirmed  by  the 
bishop  and  received  the  sacrament  of  the  Lord's  sup- 
per.     Though  he  was  thus  taught  the  form  of  godliness, 


181 7. J  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  65 

he  remained  unchanged  in  heart  until  he  was  in  his 
twenty-fourth  year,  when,  after  various  struggles  against 
sm  and  error,  he  was  brought  into  gospel  liberty  by  the 
instrumentality  of  the  Methodist  ministry.     He  was 
soon  after  led  forth  into  the  ministry  of  the  word,  and  in 
1768  jomed  the  itinerant  ministry  under  the  direction 
of  Mr.  Wesley.    It  soon  appeared,  by  the  blessed  effects 
of  his  mmistrations,  that  a  dispensation  of  the  gospel 
had  been  committed  to  him.    After  continuing  in  this 
work  for  about  four  years,  during  which  time  God  had 
given  him  the  most  indubitable  marks  of  his  approba- 
tion, hearing  Captain  Webb  speak  of  the  state  of  things 
m  America,  and  the  great  want  of  preachers,  Mr.  Shad- 
ford  offered  his  services  for  this  new  field  of  labor.    His 
offer  being  accepted  by  Mr.  Wesley,  in  company  with 
Mr.  Thomas  Rankin,  on  Good  Friday,  he  set  sail  for 
America,  and  after  a  voyage  of  eight  weeks  safely 
landed  m  Philadelphia,  where  he  was  most  cordially 
received  by  the  people.    He  immediately  entered  upon 
iHs  work,  and  God  attended  his  word  with  his  blessing. 
He  visited  Trenton  and  vapous  parts  of  New- Jersey 
and  then  came  to  New-York.    In  all  these  places  God 
gave  him  seals  to  his  ministry. 

When  he  was  about  leaving  the  city  of  Philadelphia 
the  following  remarkable  circumstance  happened,  which 
IS  related  in  his  own  words  :— 

"  When  I  went,"  said  he.  "  to  the  inn  where  my  horse 
was,  and  had  just  entered  into  the  yard,  I  observed  a  man 
ftxmg  his  eyes  upon  me,  and  looking  earnestly,  until  he 
seemed  ashamed,  and  blushed  very  much.  At  length  he 
came  up  to  me,  and  abruptly  said,  ♦  Sir,  I  saw  you  in  a 
dream  last  night.  When  I  saw  your  back  as  you  came 
mto  the  yard  I  thought  it  was  you ;  but  now  that  I  see 

fi  3 


66  A    HISTORY    OF   THE  [1817. 

your  face,  I  am  sure  that  you  are  the  person,     I  have 
been  wandering  up  and  down  till  now,  seeking  you.'   *  Saw 
me  in  a  dream,'  said  I,  *  wl  i.  do  you  mean  V    '  Sir,'  said 
he,  *  I  did,  I  am  sure  I  did :  and  yet  I  never  saw  you  with 
my  bodily  eyes  before.     Yesterday  in  the  afternoon  1  left 
this  city  and  went  as  far  as  Schuylkill  river,  intending  to 
cross  it,  but  began  to  be  uneasy,  and  could  not  go  over  it ; 
I  therefore  returned  to  this  place,  and  last  night,  in  my 
sleep,  saw  you  stand  before  me ;   when  a  person  from 
another  world  bade  me  seek  for  you  until  I  found  you,  and 
said  you  would  tell  me  what  I  must  do  to  be  saved.     He 
said  also  that  one  particular  mark  by  which  I  might  know 
you  was,  that  you  preached  w,  the  streets  and  lanes  of  the 
city. '     Having  spoken  this,  he  immediately  asked,  *  Pray, 
sir,  are  not  you  a  minister  V    I  said,  *  Yes,  I  am  a  preacher 
of  the  gospel ;  and  it  is  true  that  I  preach  in  the  streets 
and  lanes  of  the  city,  which  no  other  preacher  in  Phila- 
delphia does.     I  preach  also  every  Sunday  morning,  at 
nine  o'clock,  in  Newmarket.'    I  then  asked  him  to  step 
across  the  way  to  a  friend's  house,  where  I  asked  him 
from  whence  he  came.    He  answered,  '  From  the  .lerseys.' 
1  asked  whether  he  had  any  family ;  he  said,  '  Yes,  a  wife 
and  children.'     I  asked  where  he  was  going  ;  he  said  ho 
did  not  know.     I  likewise  asked, '  Does  your  wife  know 
where  you  are  ?'     He  said,  '  No ;  the  only  reason  why  I 
left  home  was,  I  had  been  very  uneasy  and  unhappy  for 
half  a  year  past,  and  could  rest  no  longer,  but  came  to 
Philadelphia.' 

'•  I  replied,  *  I  first  advise  you  to  go  back  to  your  wife 
and  children,  and  take  care  of  them,  by  obeying  God  in 
the  order  of  his  providence.  It  is  unnatural,'  said  I,  'to 
leave  them  in  this  manner ;  for  even  the  birds  of  the  air 
provide  for  their  young.  Secondly,  you  say  you  are  un- 
happy ;  therefore  the  thing  you  want  is  religion ;  the  love 

Oi  Vtuu,  aii-a  ui  aii  ii(aiin.iilu  ,    liguicvusiicss,  ycuMVf  auu  juy 


1817.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  67 

in  the  Holy  Ghost.  When  this  takes  possession  of  yom 
heart,  so  as  to  destroy  your  evil  tempers,  and  root  out  the 
love  of  the  world,  anger,  pride,  self-will,  and  unbelief,  then 
you  will  be  happy.  The  way  to  obtain  this  is,  you  must 
forsake  all  your  sins,  and  heartily  believe  in  the  Lord  Je- 
sus Christ.  When  you  return  to  the  Jerseys,  go  to  hear 
the  Methodist  preachers  constantly,  and  pray  to  the  Lord 
to  bless  the  word ;  and  if  you  heartily  embrace  it  you  will 
become  a  happy  man.' 

"  While  I  was  exhorting  him  tears  ran  plentifully  from 
his  eyes.  We  then  kneeled  down  to  pray,  and  I  was 
enabled  .to  plead  and  intercede  with  much  earnestness  for 
his  soul.  When  we  arose  from  our  knees  I  shook  him  by 
the  hand :  he  wept  much,  and  had  a  broken  heart ;  but  did 
not  know  how  to  part  with  me.  He  then  set  out  to  go  to 
his  wife  in  the  Jerseys,  and  I  saw  him  no  more ;  but  I 
trust  I  shall  meet  him  in  heaven." 

Of  his  subsequent  labors  in  America,  and  the  great 
success  which  attended  his  preaching-,  the  reader  will 
find  an  ample  account  in  the  fiist  volume  of  this  His- 
tory, book  ii,  chapter  1.  The  following  incident  is 
iolated  as  the  effect  of  his  labors  while  in  Virginia. 
Concerning  the  new  converts  who  were  brought  to  the 
knowledge  of  the  truth  during  that  great  and  glorious 
work,  Mr.  Shadford  says— 

"  Among  these  was  a  dancing-master,  who  came  first  to 
hear  on  a  week-day,  dressed  in  scarlet ;  and  came  several 
miles  again  on  Sunday,  dressed  in  green.  After  preaching 
he  spoke  to  me,  and  asked  if  I  could  come  to  that  part 
where  he  lived  some  day  in  the  week.  I  told  him  I  could 
not,  as  I  was  engaged  every  day.  I  saw  him  again  at 
preaching  that  week,  and  another  man  of  his  profession. 
When  I  was  going  to  preach  one  morning,  a  friend  sdd  to 
me,  '  Mr.  Shadford,  you  spoiled  a  fine  dancing-master  last 

3 


68  A    HISTORY    OF   THE  [1817. 

week.  He  was  so  cut  under  preaching,  and  feels  such  a 
load  of  sin  upon  his  conscience,  that  he  moves  very  hea- 
vily ;  nay,  he  cannot  shake  his  heels  at  all.  He  had  a 
profitable  school,  but  hath  given  it  up,  and  is  determined 
to  dance  no  more.  He  intends  now  to  teach  reading, 
writing,  and  arithmetic'  I  said, « It  is  very  well ;  what  is 
his  name  V  He  said,  *  He  is  called  Madcap  .''  I  said, 
♦  A  very  proper  name  for  a  dancing-master ;'  but  I  found 
this  was  only  a  nickname,  for  his  real  name  was  Metcalf. 
He  began  to  teach  school,  joined  our  society,  found  the 
guilt  and  load  of  his  sin  removed  from  his  conscience,  and 
the  pardoning  love  of  God  shed  abroad  in  his  heart.  He 
lived  six  or  seven  yejtrs  after,  and  died  a  great  witness  for 
God,  having  been  one  of  the  most  devoted  men  in  our 
connection." 

In  1778  Mr.  Shadford,  not  willing  to  throw  off  his 
allegiance  to  the  British  government,  and  not  being 
permitted  to  remain  here  in  peace  without  taking  the 
oath  required  by  the  law  of  the  state  of  Maryland,  to 
be  an  obedient  citizen  of  this  country,  took  his  depart- 
ure for  England.  After  his  return  he  continued  with 
great  diligence  in  the  work  of  an  itinerant  minister, 
being  everywhere  received  as  a  messenger  of  God,  until, 
worn  down  with  labor  and  weakened  by  disease,  he 
was  compelled,  in  1791,  to  take  a  supernumerary  .ela- 
tion. He  did  not,  however,  bury  himself  in  obscurity, 
or  lead  a  life  of  useless  inactivity,  but  persevered  in 
his  work  as  his  strength  would  permit  the  remainder 
of  his  days.  His  biographer  gives  the  following  ac- 
count of  Ills  last  hours,  which  is  an  instructive  comment 
upon  a  life  of  piety  and  dovoiion  to  God  : — 

"  Ou  Monday,  February  28,  Mr.  Shadford  dined  with 
his  affectionate  friend  Mr.  Blunt,  in  company  with  his 

brethren.     He  then  appeared  in  tolerable  healih,  and  ate  a 
3 


1817.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  09 

hearty  dinner.  In  the  course  of  the  week  he  felt  indis- 
posed,  from  a  complication  of  diseases.  He  was  under 
no  apprehension  at  this  time  that  his  departure  was  so 
near,  as  he  had  frequently  felt  similar  affections,  and,  by 
timely  applications  to  his  medical  friend  Mr.  Bush,  had 
been  relieved.  On  Friday,  March  1,  he  with  some  diffi- 
culty met  his  class,  and  afterward  said  it  was  impressed 
on  his  mind  he  should  never  meet  it  more.  On  the  Satur- 
day afternoon  I  called  to  inquire  about  his  heahh,  when 
he  said,  with  unusual  fervor, 

'  To  patient  faith  the  prize  is  sure  ; 
And  all  that  to  the  end  endure 
The  cross,  shall  wear  the  crown.* 

His  mind  seemed  fully  occupied  with  the  great  and  inte- 
resting realities  of  eternity,  and  he  had  no  greater  pleasure 
than  in  meditating  and  talking  of  the  redeeming  love  of  God. 
On  the  Lord's  day  morning,  March  10,  before  I  went  to 
the  chapel  I  called  to  see  him,  and  found  he  had  slept 
most  of  the  night ;  from  this  we  flattered  ourselves  the 
complaint  had  taken  a  favorable  turn,  and  were  in  hopes 
of  his  recovery.     But  when  the  doctor  called  he  said  the 
disease  was  fast  approaching  to  a  crisis,  and  it  was  impos- 
sible for  him  to  recover.     Upon  this  information  Mr.  Shad- 
ford  broke  out  into  a  rapture,  and  exclaimed,  *  Glory  be  to 
God !'     Upon  the  subject  of  his  acceptance  with  God,  and 
assurance  of  eternal  glory,  he  had  not  the  shadow  of  a 
doubt.     While  he  lay  in  view  of  an  eternal  world,  and 
was  asked  if  all  was  clear  before  him,  he  replied,  '  I  bless 
God,  it  is  ;'  and  added,  '  Victory !  victory !  through  the 
blood  of  the  Lamb !'     When  Mrs.  Shadford  was  sitting  by 
him,  he  repeated,  ♦  What  surprise  !  what  surprise !'    I  sup- 
pose he  was  reflecting  upon  his  deliverance  from  a  cor- 
ruptible body,  and  his  entrance  into  the  presence  of  his 
God  and  Saviour.  whfirR  AVArv  an^n^  o.,.»... i     i 


70 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1817. 

nation,  and  the  boldest  fancy  returns  wearied  and  unsatis- 
fied in  its  loftiest  flights.    Two  friends,  who  were  anxious 
for  his  recovery,  called  upon  him,  and  when  they  inquired 
how  he  was,  he  replied,  «I  am  going  to  my  Father's  house, 
and  find  religion  to  be  an  angel  in  death.'    A  pious  lady, 
in  the  course  of  the  day,  was  particularly  desirous  of  see- 
ing him,  and  she  asked  him  to  pray  for  her :  he  inquired, 
*  What  shall  I  pray  for  V  She  said,  *  That  I  may  meet  you 
m  heaven,  to  cast  my  blood-bought  crown  at  the  feet  of 
my  Redeemer:'  he  said,  with  great  energy,  *  The  prize  is 
sure.'     His  pious  sayings  were  numerous,  and  will  long 
live  in  the  recollection  of  many ;  but  a  collection  of  them 
all  v.'Guld  swell  this  article  beyond  due  limits.     His  last 
words  were,  '  I'll  praise,  I'll  praise,  I'll  praise  ;'  and  a  little 
after  he  fell  asleep  in  Jesus,  on  March  11,  1816,  in  the 
78th  year  of  his  age." 

The  following  remarks  upon  his  character  are  as 
just  as  they  are  true : — 

"  For  nearly  fifty-four  yearsMr.  Shadford  had  enjoyed 
a  sense  of  the  divine  favor.     His  conduct  and  conversation 
sufficiently  evinced  the  truth  of  his  profession.     For  many 
years  hi;  had  professed  to  enjoy  that  perfect  love  which 
excludes  all  slavish  fear;  and  if  Christian  tempers  and  a 
holy  walk  are  proofs  of  it,  his  claims  were  legitimate. 
Maintaining  an  humble  dependance  upon  the  merits  of  the 
Redeemer,  he  steered  clear  of  both  Pharisaism  and  Anti- 
nomianism  :  his  faith  worked  by  love.     Truly  happy  him- 
self, there  was  nothing  forbidding  in  his  countenance,  sour 
m  his  manners,  or  severe  in  his  observations.     His  com- 
pany was    always   agreeable,  and  his  conversation  pro- 
fitable.    If  there  was  any  thing  stern  in  his   behavior, 
it   was   assumed,  to  silence  calumniators  and   religious 
gossips.    In  short,  he  was  a  man  of  prayer,  and  a  man  of 
God. 


>  anxious 


1817.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  71 

«  His  abilities  as  a  preacher  were  not  above  mediocrity ; 
yet  he  was  a  very  useful  laborer  in  the  vineyard  of  the 
Lord.  In  illustrating  the  doctrines  of  the  gospel  he  was 
simple,  plain,  and  clear.  His  discourses,  though  not  la- 
bored, were  methodical,  full  of  Scriptural  phraseology, 
delivered  with  pathos,  and  accompanied  with  the  blessing 
of  God.  He  did  not  perplex  his  hearers  with  abstruse 
reasoning  and  metaphysical  distinctions,  but  aimed  to  feed 
them  with  the  bread  of  life ;  and  instead  of  sending  them 
to  a  dictionary  for  an  explanation  of  a  difficult  word,  he 
pointed  them  to  the  Lamb  of  God  which  taketh  away  the 
sin  of  the  world. 

"Mr.  Shadford  was  free  and  generous.     His  little  an- 
nual income,  managed  with  a  strict  regard  to  economy, 
supplied  his  wants,  and  left  a  portion  for  the  poor  and 
needy.     In  visiting  the  sick,  while  he  assisted  them  by 
his  prayers  and  advice,  he  cheerfully  administered  to  their 
wants.     He  spent  no  idle  time  in  needless  visits  or  un- 
meaning chit-chat ;  and  though  many  of  his  kind  friends 
in  Frome  would  have  considered  it  a  high  favor  if  he  could 
have  been  prevailed  upon  to  partake  of  their  bounty,  yet 
he  always  declined  it,  except  once  a  week,  at  the  hospita- 
ble table  of  his  generous  friend  Mr.  Blunt,  where  he  gene- 
rally met  the  preachers  with  some  part  of  their  families. 
He  loved  his  brethren  in  the  ministry ;  and,  like  an  old 
soldier  who  had  survived  many  a  campaign,  he  felt  a  plea- 
sure in  retracing  the  work  of  God,  in  which  he  had  been 
engaged  for  more  than  half  a  century.     He  claimed  it  as 
a  right,  and  deemed  it  a  privilege,  to  have  the  preachers 
to  take  tea  with  him  every  Saturday  afternoon.     There 
was  nothing  sordid  in  his  disposition,  and,  as  far  as  I  could 
ever  observe,  covetousness  formed  no  pai   of  his  character. 
He  considered  the  rule  of  his  Saviour  as  having  a  peculiar 
claim  upon  his  attention ;  •  Lay  up  for  yourselves  treasure 
in  heaven.' 


"^2  A    HISTORY    OF  THE  [1817. 

"  His  patience  and  resignation  to  the  will  of  God  were 
such,  that  he  has  left  few  superiors  in  those  passive  graces. 
Some  years  since  he  lost  his  eyesight,  and  continued  in 
this  state  of  affliction  for  several  years ;  but  instead  of 
murmuring  at  this  dispensation  of  Providence,  he  bore  it 
with  Christian  fortitude.    This  did  not  altogether  prevent 
his  usefulness ;  for  though  the  sphere  of  his  action  was 
circumscribed  by  it,  he  could  still  pray  with  the  afflicted, 
converse  with  the  pious,  and  meet  several  classes  in  the 
week.     In  this  state  he  was  advised  to  submit  to  an  ope- 
ration for  the  recovery  of  his  sight.     The  trial  proved  suc- 
cessful;  and  when  the  surgeon  said,  'Sir,  now  you  will 
have  the  pleasure  of  seeing  to  use  your  knife  and  fork, 
Mr.  Shadford  feelingly  replied,  ♦  Doctor,  I  shall  have  a 
greater  pleasure ;  that  of  seeing  to  read  my  Bible.'    This 
luxury  he  enjoyed;  foi  when  he  was  permitted  to  use  his 
eyesight,  the  first  thing  he  did  was  to  read  the  word  of  life 
for  three  hours,  reading  and  weeping  with  inexpressibli? 
joy.     During  the  whole  of  his  last  short  illness  he  be- 
trayed n^  symptoms  of  uneasiness,  but  cheerfully  submitted 
to  the  will  of  God.     Through  the  last  few  years  of  his  life 
he  glided  smoothly  down  the  stream  of  time.     The  assi- 
duous attention  of  Mrs,  Shadford  to  all  his  wants,  her  sym- 
pathy in  the  moments  of  his  pain,  and  unwearied  attempts, 
either  to  prevent  his  sufferings  or  lessen  their  force,  greatly 
tended  to  soften  them  down.     She  has  lost  a  pious  and  an 
affectionate  husband,  and  the  Methodist  society  in  Frome 
one  of  its  best  members." 


8 


Numbers  in  the  Church. 


Whites. 

This  year      181,442 
Last  year      171,931 


Colored. 

43,411 
42,304 


Total. 

224,853 
214,235 


Preachers. 

716 
695 


Increase        9,511  1,107         10,618         2i 


1818.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  73 

This  year  marks  a  favorable  epoch  in  the  history  of 
our  Church,  by  the  recommencement  of  the  Methodist 
Magazine,  the  first  number  of  which  was  pubHshed  by 
J.  Soule  and  T.  Mason,  in  January,  1818.    As  has  al- 
ready been  remarked,  the  General  Conference  of  1812 
ordered  the  resumption  of  this  work,  but  the  order  wras 
never  executed.     The  order  was  renewed  in  1816,  yet 
from  some  cause  it  was  not  recommenced  until 'this 
year.     Its  appearance,  even  at  this  late  period,  was 
hailed,  by  the  friends  of  literature  and  religion,  as  the 
harbinger  of  brighter  days  to  our  Zion,  as  it  promised 
to  become  a  medium  of  information  and  instruction  to 
our  people  generaUy,  and  a  permanent  record  of  those 
facts  and  incidents  which  might  throw  light  upon  our 
history  in  a  future  day. 

As  the  issuing  of  this  work  was  entering  on  an  un- 
trodden path  by  those  who  were  to  guide  its  course  and 
watch  over  its  destinies,  it  is  no  wonder  that  its  editor 
the  Rev.  Joshua  Soule,  felt  some  anxiety  for  its  suc- 
cess, and  a  trembHng  sense  of  the  responsibilities  he  was 
about  to  assume.  These  he  expressed,  in  the  preface  to 
the  first  number,  in  the  following  language  :— - 

"  In  publishing  this  periodical,  the  editors  feel  all  those 
sensibilities  which  arise  from  a  conviction  that  its  merits 
are  to  be  tested  under  the  inspecaon  of  an  enlightened 
commumty.  The  care  and  labor  inseparable  from  the 
agency  of  the  Book  Concern  forbid  our  devoting  as  much 
time  and  application  to  the  selection  and  arrangement  of 
materials  for  publication  in  the  Magazine  as  its  nature  and 
importance  demand.  But  notwithstanding  these  embar- 
rassments exist,  we  trust  the  work  will  be  found  both  use- 
ful and  entertaining  to  the  real  friends  of  Zion." 

The  design  of  the  work,  and  the  manner  in  which 

9 


km 


■ill 


Ittf 


74 


A   HISTORY   OP   THE 


[1818 

it  was  proposed  to  carry  it  into  execution,  were  thus 
announced: — 

"  The  great  design  of  this  publication  is  to  circulate  re- 
ligious knowledge,  a  design  which  embraces  the  highest 
interests  of  rational  existence,  as  the  sum  of  individual  and 
social  happiness  increases  in  a  scale  of  proportion  with 
the  increase  of  spiritual  light  and  information. 

"  In  the  execution  of  this  design  the  strictest  care  will 
be  taken  to  guard  the  purity  and  simplicity  of  the  doctrines 
of  the  gospel  against  the  innovations  of  superstition  on  the 
one  hand,  and  of  false  philosophy  on  the  other. 

"  In  admitting  controversial  subjects  into  this  work,  the 
heat  of  party  zeal  and  personal  crimination  will  be  care- 
fully avoided." 

As  before  said,  the  appearance  of  this  work  gave 
great  satisfaction  to  the  most  enlightened  and  intelligent 
friends  of  our  communion,  and  hence  a  commendable 
zeal  was  exemplified  in  procuring  subscribers,  that  it 
might  have  as  wide  a  circulation  as  possible  among  the 
people  of  our  charge ;  and  I  believe  that  not  less  than 
ten  thousand  were  procured  the  first  year,  though  its 
circulation  in  subsequent  years  did  not  answer  the  ex- 
pectations raised  by  this  promising  commencement. 

An  effort  was  made  last  year  to  resuscitate  the  cause 
of  education  among  us.  Dr.  Samuel  K.  Jennings, 
aided  by  several  benevolent  and  public  spirited  indivi- 
duals in  the  city  of  Baltimore,  laid  th  .  foundation  of  a 
literary  institution,  denominated  the  Ashury  College; 
and  it  went  into  operation  under  apparently  favorable 
auspices,  an  account  of  which  was  published  in  the 
March  number  of  the  Methodist  Magazine  for  this  year. 
With  this  account,  however,  the  friends  of  education, 

who  estimated  thinjsrs  as  thev  are.   were  not  much 
3  -  ,        , 


1818.] 


Tf.^THODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


75 


gratified,  as  it  seemed  to  promise  more  than  could  be 
rationally  expected,  and  was  rather  calculated  to  blazon 
forth  the  attainments  of  the  professors  than  to  enlighten 
the  public  by  a  sober  statement  of  facts. 

It  continued  for  a  short  time,  and  then,  greatly  to  the 
disappointment  and  mortification  of  its  friends,  went 
down  as  suddenly  as  it  had  come  up,  and  Asbury  Col- 
lege lives  only  in  the  recollection  of  those  who  rejoiced 
over  its  rise  and  mourned  over  its  fall — a  fatality  which 
had  hitherto  attended  all  attempts  to  establish  literary 
institutions  among  us. 

This  year  was  distinguished  by  some  powerful  revi- 
vals of  religion.  In  the  city  of  Baltimore  the  Rev.  Ste- 
phen G.  Roszel  gives  an  account  of  one  of  the  most 
extensive  and  encouraging  revivals  ever  beheld  in  that 
city.  It  was  preceded  by  observing  days  of  fasting  and 
prayer,  and  began  at  Fell's  Point,  whence  it  spread 
throughout  the  entire  city,  in  the  progress  of  which 
nearly  one  thousand  souls  were  brought  into  church 
fellowship.  The  subjects  of  this  great  work  were  from 
twelve  to  eighty  and  even  ninety  years  of  age,  many 
of  whom  were  heads  of  families,  of  respectable  standing 
and  influence  in  society,  and  others  in  the  bloom  of  life, 
young  men  and  maidens  of  promising  talents,  who 
became  pillars  in  the  Church.  The  work  entered 
the  penitentiary,  and  quite  a  number  of  the  convicts 
became  subjects  of  the  grace  of  life.  Such  was  the  im- 
pression made  upon  the  public  mind  by  this  powerful 
reformation,  that  even  those  who  were  not  its  immedi- 
ate subjects  were  awed  into  silent  submission,  being 
constrained  to  acknowledge  the  hand  of  God. 

In  many  other  places  also,  in  the  bounds  of  the  New- 
York  and  New-England  conferences,  there  were  wra- 

8° 


76 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1818 


Clous  outpourings  of  the  Spirit  of  God,  and  great  was 
the  rejoicing  of  happy  believers  over  the  conversion  of 
penitent  sinners.  Southoid,  vn  Long  Island,  and  some 
circuits  within  the  br,  r'  <.f  the  Kennebec  district,  in 
Maine,  and  other  places  which  might  be  named,  were 
favored  with  manifestations  of  the  power  and  grace  of 
God  in  the  awalcening  and  conversion  of  sinners. 

In  Upper  Canada,  particularly  on  fh-  A  ?^usta.  Bay 
of  Quints,  HalloweU,  and  Niagara  circuits,  there  was  a 
great  ingathering  of  souls  into  the  fold  of  Christ,  among 
whom  were  several  Roman  Catholics,  and  eight  per- 
sons who  were  over  sixty  years  of  age.     This  work 
commenced  at  an  annual  conference  held  at  EHzabeth- 
town  in  June,  1817,  the  first  ever  held  in  that  province, 
and  thence  spread  in  a  glorious  manner  through  the 
above-mentioned  circuits,  bowing  the  hearts  of  hun- 
dreds, young  and  old,  and  in  some  instances  whole  fa- 
mihes,  to  the  yoke  of  Jesus  Christ.     During  the  pro- 
gress of  this  great  work  about  one  thousand  souls  were 
brought  from  darkness  to  light,  and  added  to  the  Church. 
We  have  heretofore  seen  that  camp  meetings,  bv 
reason  of  the  irregularities  which  brought  them  into 
discredit,  gradually  declined  in  Kentucky,  and  were  in- 
cleed  generally  abandoned  for  several  years,  especially 
m  the  central  part  of  the  state.     Their  usefulness,  how- 
ever, m  other  parts  of  the  country,  induced  some  of  the 
friends  of  the  cause  to  make  an  effort  to  introduce  them 
again  into  the  interior  of  Kentucky.     The  Rev.  Le 
Roy  Cole,  who  joined  the  traveling  ministry  as  early  as 
1777,  had  located  and  moved  into  Clarke  county,  Ky. ; 
but,  being  much  devoted  to  the  work  of  God,  he  had 
re-entered  the  itinerancy,  and  was  again  zealouslv  en- 


ffagred  in  promotinsr  revival« 

_  —         ,  jj  — .  - .  _- — 

3 


J-  ..ivj  j^jtAi    lie  appuiiiieu 


1818.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


77 


a  camp  meeting  in  the  neighborhood  of  Cynthiana,  in 
Harrison  county.  For  the  first  and  second  days  every 
thing  tended  to  discourage  them— the  rain  descended  in 
torrents,  and  a  company  of  rude  young  men  came  on 
the  ground,  with  bottles  of  whisky  in  their  pockets, 
evidently  determined  on  mischief.  The  friends  of  reli- 
gion, however,  persevered  in  their  work,  and  on  Satur- 
day night  there  was  a  mighty  display  of  the  convincing 
power  of  God.  Those  very  young  men,  who  came  for 
sport,  became  much  alarmed;  some,  throwing  away 
their  whisky  bottles,  fell  upon  theii-  knees  in  prayer, 
while  others  ran  into  the  woods,  to  escape,  if  possible, 
from  their  fears  ;  but  even  here  their  cries  for  mercy  tes- 
tified to  the  deep  anguish  of  their  souls.  This  was  the 
commencement  of  a  great  revival  of  religion  in  that  part 
of  the  country,  which  eventuated  in  the  conversion  of 
about  four  hundred  souls  in  Cynthiana  and  its  vicinity, 
under  the  ministry  of  Absalom  Hunt,  Le  Roy  Cole,  and 
others,  who  assisted  them  in  their  work.  From  this 
the  reformation  afterward  spread  its  hallowing  influence 
in  various  directions  through  the  country,  and  camp 
meetings  regained  their  lost  character  in  that  part  of 
Kentucky.  It  is,  indeed,  said,  that  during  this  great 
and  good  work  several  traveling  preaciiers  were  raised 
up,  who  have  since  distinguished  themselves  for  useful- 
ness in  the  Church. 

The  general  superintendency  of  the  Church,  as  has 
been  seen  in  the  accouL  given  of  the  General  Confer- 
ence of  1816,  was  now  committed  to  three  hands,  all 
of  whom  entered  upon  their  work  with  commendable 
zeal  and  diligence,  travehng  through  the  length  and 
breadth  of  their  charge,  alternately  changing  with  each 
o{z,er,  so  that  each  could  pass  ilirough  his  great  circuit  at 

8 


78 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1818. 


least  once  in  four  years.  Bishop  M'Kendree,  however, 
enjoyed  but  a  feeble  state  of  health,  and  could  not, 
therefore,  render  that  efficient  service  which  was  desira- 
ble. But  his  colleagues  were  comparatively  young  and 
vigorous,  their  labors  incessant,  and  their  services  highly 
appreciated  by  the  Church  generally. 

Of  the  living  it  would  be  unseemly  to  speak  in  terms 
of  fulsome  flattery,  while  of  the  dead  the  truth  may  be 
told  without  the  fear  of  censure  for  either  praise  or  dis- 
praise. Of  Bishop  M'Kendree  we  have  already  spoken, 
while  giving  an  account  of  his  election  to  office.  Bishop 
George  was  a  man  singularly  devoted  to  God,  of  great 
natural  eloquence,  and  l^is  preaching  was  "in  the  de- 
monstration of  the  Spirit  and  power ;"  and  wherever  he 
went  he  diffiised  the  spirit  of  piety  and  of  Christian  and 
ministerial  zeal  among  preachers  and  people.  And  it 
is  enough  to  say  that  his  colleague,  Bishop  Roberts, 
gave  equal  evidence  of  his  strong  attachment  to  the 
cause  he  had  espoused,  and  general  satisfaction  to  his 
brethren  by  the  manner  in  which  he  discharged  his 
duties.  In  the  hands  of  such  men  the  government  was 
administered  with  fidelity,  the  conferences  attended  with 
punctuality,  and  the  union,  peace,  and  prosperity  of  the 
Church  generally  secured  and  promoted. 

But  though  the  health  of  Bishop  M'Kendree  was 
delicate,  he  was  enabled  to  move  around  among  the 
churches,  and  to  discharge  a  portion  of  the  duties  of  the 
superintendency.  This  year  he  traveled  through  the 
southern  and  western  states,  extending  his  visits  to 
Ohio,  Illinois,  Indiana,  Mississippi,  and  Missouri,  in 
which  he  passed  through  several  tribes  of  Indians. 
Though  his  bodily  infirmities  were  such  that  his  friends 
had  to  assist  him  in  mounting  and  dismountinff  his 

3 


1818.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


79 


horse,  yet  his  zeal  for  God  and  perishing  souls  impelled 
him  forward,  and  enabled  him  to  triumph  over  all  the 
difficulties  of  his  journey,  and  to  perform,  with  such  as- 
sistance as  he  could  procure,  the  duties  of  his  office. 
Such,  however,  was  his  feebleness  when  he  came  to  the 
Tennessee  conference,  that  he  had  to  be  taken  from 
his  bed  and  supported  by  two  preachers  while  he  per- 
formed the  ordination  services,  which  he  did  on  the  camp 
ground  where  the  exercises  were  held  on  the  sabbath. 
The  rest  of  his  journey  was  pursued  in  a  like  state  of 
feebleness  and  pain,  and  his  sufferings  w  ere  heightened 
by  his  being  obliged  to  lodge  in  the  woods  eight  or  ten 
nights  while  passing  through  the  Choctaw  and  Chicka- 
saw nations  of  Indians.  In  these  labors  he  was  borne 
up  by  a  consciousness  of  the  divine  approbation,  and 
cheered  by  the  good  countenance  and  affectionate  atten- 
tions of  his  brethren  and  friends. 

Fifty  were  located,  seventeen  returned  supernume- 
rary, thirty-eight  superannuated,  and  five,  namely, 
William  Patridgej  Anthony  Senter^  Henry  Padgett, 
liezekiah  Harryman,  and  Gad  iSmith,  had  died  in 
peace.  A  strong  testimony  in  favor  of  aJl  these  is  left 
on  record ;  but  the  last  mentioned.  Gad  Smith,  was 
one  of  the  most  devoted,  diligent,  and  useful  young 
ministers  I  ever  knew.  His  race  was  short,  but  it  was 
attended  with  most  evident  marks  of  the  divine  favor. 


Numbers  in  the  Church. 


This  year 
Last  year 


Whites. 
190,477 
181,442 


Colored.  Total.       Preachers. 

39,150      229,627      748 
43,411      224,853      716 


Increase       9,035  De.  4,261    In.  4,774 


32 


The  reader  will  perceive  that  while  there  was  an  in- 


80 


A   HI8T0R7  OP  THE 


[1819. 


crease  of  white  members  amounting  to  9,035,  there  was 
a  decrease  of  4,261  of  the  'solored  members,  reducing 
the  actual  increase  to  4,774. 

This  diminutioa  in  the  number  of  colored  communi- 
cants was  owing  to  the  influence  of  the  AUenite  seces- 
sion, before  mentioned,  which  had  now  spread  into  the 
city  of  New- York  and  some  other  places,  exciting  quite 
a  spirit  of  dissatisfaction  in  tha  minds  of  many  of  this 
class  of  our  membership.     Indeed,  a  desire  to  become 
independent  of  the  white  preachers  had  manifested  itself 
for  some  time  among  a  portion  of  our  colored  congrega- 
tK  ns,  not  because  they  were  oppressed, — for  our  services 
had  been  rendered  mostly  gratuitous,  the  entire  colored 
congregation  in  the  city  of  New-York  not  paying  more, 
at  any  time,  than  two  hundred  dollars  a  year  for  the 
support  of  the  ministry,— but  chiefly  from  a  disposition 
to  manage  their  own  affairs  in  their  own  way,  without 
check  or  control  from  their  white  brethren,  pleading 
tliat  they  had  piety  and  talent  among  themselves  suffi- 
cient to  guide  them  in  their  counsels,  to  supply  their 
pulpits,  and  to  exercise  the  discipline  of  the  Church.    It 
is  not  known,  however,  that  they  departed  in  any  de- 
gree fron>  the  doctrines  which  they  had  received,  or 
from  the  General  Rules  of  the  United  Societies.    In 
this  respect,  therefore,  they  remained  Methodists  still, 
while  theydeclared  themselves  independent  in  regard  toa 
general  control  over  theij-  societies  and  church  property. 

1819.  This  year  was  distinguished  for  the  origin  and 
commencement  of  the  Missionary  Society  of  tlie  Me- 
thodist Episcopal  Church. 

It  is  true  that  Methodism  had  been  justly  considered 
missionary  in  its  character  from  its  beginning.  Among 
all  modern  missionaries,  John  Wesley  was  the  greatest, 


1819.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  gj 

the  most  evangelical,  laborious,  and  successful.     The 
method  which  he  adopted  and  pursued  to  the  end  of 
his  most  useful  life  included  in  it  aU  the  elements  of  a 
missionary  society,  missionary  plans,  and  operations. 
And  the  manner  in  which  our  Church  was  or^ranized 
m  this  country  partook  of  the  like  missionary  character. 
The  first  Wesleyan  ministers  who  came  to  this  country 
were  missionaries,  in  the  proper  sense  of  that  word  • 
and  It  was  by  carrying  out  the  spirit  and  plans  which 
they  adopted,   itinerating  as  extensively  as  possible 
through  the  country,  that  the  gospel  took  such  a  rapid 
spread  through  the  instrumentality  of  their  successors. 

Yet,  on  the  increase  of  our  work,  bringing  the  cir- 
cuits, districts,  and  conferences  into  a  more  regular  and 
compact  order,  it  was  found  that  it  was  losing  somewhat 
of  Us  missionary  character,  and  therefore  needed,  that 
It  might  take  a  still  wider  range  of  usefulness,  some- 
thing by  which  a  more  expansive  field  of  labor  might 
be  occupied.  This  could  be  done  only  bv  grafting  upon 
tlie  original  stock  the  branch  of  a  missionary  society 
subject  to  such  regulations  a.  should  bring  it  strictly 
within  the  control  of  the  genera!  superintendency. 

It  was  found  also  that  there  were  many  parts  of  our 
country,  both  in  the  old  and  new  settlements,  where  the 
IKJopk  were  either  too  poor  or  too  indifferent  about  their 
eternai  interests  to  grant  any  thing  like  a  competent 
supjwrt  to  those  who  might  be  sent  to  preach  the  gospel 
to  them.  With  these  -lifficulties  we  had  long  contended, 
and  many  of  our  preachers  had  suffered  all  sorts  of 
liardsbips  in  conveying  to  the  people  in  these  circum- 
stances the  glad  tidings  of  salvation.  But  as  they  had 
succeeded  in  raising  up  societies,  many  of  which  had 
become  comparatively  wealthy,  it  was  thought  to  be 

«  8 


82 


A   HISTORY    OF   THE 


[1819. 


nothiiig  more  than  a  duty  which  the  Church  owed  to 
God  and  to  mankind,  that  its  members  should  contri- 
bute a  portion  of  their  earthly  substance  to  aid  in  sup- 
plying the  spiritual  wants  of  those  destitute  places. 
Under  these  impressions  it  was  concluded  that  if  a 
united  and  systematic  plan  could  be  devised  to  call  forth 
the  ability  and  liberality  of  the  Church,  that  amount  of 
human  suffering  arising  from  pecuniary  embarrass- 
ments might  be  greatly  diminished,  the  gospel  be  more 
extensively  spread  among  the  poor  and  the  destitute, 
and  those  men  of  God  who  were  willing  to  devote  their 
energies  to  this  noble  enterprise  be  relieved  from  the 
anxieties  arising  from  present  or  prospective  want  and 
suffering.  These  thoughts  had  long  occupied  the  minds 
of  some  of  the  most  enlightened  and  warm-hearted 
ministers  and  members  of  Qur  Church. 

Thif  subject  accordingly  became  the  topic  of  con- 
versation among  several  individuals  in  the  city  of  New- 
Yoi-k  in  the  beginning  of  this  year,  some  for  and  some 
against  the  measure.  At  length,  at  a  meeting  of 
preachers  stationed  in  New-York,  and  the  book  agents, 
the  Rev.  Laban  Clark  presented  a  resolution  in  favor 
of  forming  a  Bible  and  missionary  society  of  the  Me- 
thodist Episcopal  Church.  At  this  time  the  following 
preachers  were  present,  namely,  Freeborn  Garrettson, 
Joshua  Soule,  Samuel  Merwin,  Nathan  Bangs,  Laban 
Clark,  Thomas  Mason,  Seth  Crowell,  Samuel  Howe, 
and  Thomas  Thorp.  After  a  free  interchange  of 
thoughts  on  the  subject  the  resolution  was  adopted,  and 
Freeborn  Garrettson,  Laban  Clark,  and  Nathan  Bangs 
were  appointed  a  committee  to  prepare  a  constitution  to 
be  submitted  at  a  subsequent  meeting  of  the  above-men- 
tioned preachers.     This  committee,  on  coming  togetlier, 


1819.1 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


89 


agreed  that  each  member  should  draught  a  constitu- 
tion, and  at  a  subsequent  meeting  the  one  should  be 
adopted  which  might  appear  the  most  suitable.  On 
comparing  these  draughts,  the  one  prepared  by  the  pre- 
sent writer  was  preferred,  and  at  a  full  meeting  of  the 
preachers  before  mentioned,  after  undergoing  some 
verbal  alterations,  was  unanimously  concurred  in,  and 
ordered  to  be  submitted  to  a  public  meeting  of  all  the 
members  and  friends  of  the  Church  who  might  choose 
to  attend  the  call,  in  the  Forsyth-street  church,  on  the 
evening  of  April  5,  1819.  This  was  accordingly  done, 
when  Nathan  Bangs  was  called  to  the  chair.  Ad- 
dresses were  delivered  by  the  Chair,  by  Freeborn  Gar- 
itttson,  Joshua  Soule,  and  some  others,  when,  on  motion 
of  Joshua  Soule,  seconded  by  Freeborn  Garrettson,  the 
constitution  which  had  been  prepared  was  adopted.  It 
is  as  follows : — 

"  CONSTITUTION. 

"Article  I.  This  association  shall  be  denominated 
The  Missionary  and  Bible  Society  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  in  America  ;  the  object  of  which  is, 
to  supply  the  destitute  with  Bibles  gratuitously,  to  afford  a 
cheap  supply  to  those  who  may  have  the  means  of  pur- 
chasing, and  to  enable  the  several  annual  conferences  more 
effectually  to  extend  their  missionary  labors  throughout  the 
United  States  and  elsewhere. 

"Art.  II.  The  business  of  this  society  shall  be  con- 
ducted by  a  president,  thirteen  vice  presidents,  clerk, 
recording  and  corresponding  secretary,  treasurer,  and 
thirty-two  managers,  all  of  whom  shall  be  members  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  The  president,  first  two 
vice  presidents,  clerk,  secretaries,  treasurer,  and  the  thirty- 
two  managers,  shall  be  elected  by  the  society  annually ; 


84  A    HISTORY    OF   THE  [1819. 

and  each  annual  conference  shall  have  the  privilege  of 
appointing  one  vice  president  from  its  own  body. 

"  Art.  III.  Fifteen  members  at  all  meetings  of  the 
board  of  managers,  and  thirty  at  all  meetings  of  the  so- 
ciety, shall  be  a  quorum. 

"  Art.  IV.  The  board  shall  have  authority  to  make  by- 
lavi^s  for  regulating  its  own  proceedings,  fi.U  up  vacancies 
that  may  occur  during  the  year,  and  shall  present  a  state- 
ment of  its  transactions  and  funds  to  the  society  at  its 
annual  meeting ;  and  also  lay  before  the  General  Confer- 
ence a  report  of  its  transactions  for  the  four  preceding 
years,  and  state  of  its  funds. 

"  Art.  V.  Ordained  ministers  of  the  Methodist  Episco- 
pal Church,  whether  traveling  or  local,  being  members  of 
the  society,  shall  be  ex  officio  members  of  the  board  of  ma- 
nagers, and  be  entitled  to  vote  in  all  meetings  of  the  board. 

"Art.  VI.  Auxiliary  societies,  embracing  the  same 
objects,  shall  be  supplied  with  Bibles  and  Testaments  at 
cost,  provided  such  societies  shall  agree,  after  supplying 
their  own  districts  with  Bibles,  to  place  their  surplus  mo- 
nays  at  the  disposal  of  this  society. 

"  Art.  VII.  Each  subscriber  paying  two  dollars  annu- 
ally shall  be  a  member ;  and  the  payment  of  twenty  dol- 
lars at  one  time  shall  constitute  a  member  for  life. 

"  Art.  VIII.  Each  member  shall  be  entitled,  under  the 
direction  of  the  board  of  managers,  to  purchase  Bibles  and 
Testaments  at  the  society's  prices,  which  shall  be  as  low 
as  possible. 

"  Art.  IX.  The  annual  meeting  of  the  society  shall  be 
held  on  the  third  Monday  in  April. 

"  Art.  X.  The  president,  v^^ce  presidents,  clerk,  secre- 
taries, and  treasurer,  for  the  time  being,  shall  be  ex  officio 
members  of  the  board  of  managers. 

"  Art.  XL  At  all  meetings  of  the  society  and  of  the 
board,  the  president,  or,  in  his  absence,  the  vice  president 


1819.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


85 


first  on  the  list  then  present,  and  in  the  absence  of  all  the 
vice  presidents,  such  member  as  shall  be  appointed  by  the 
meeting  for  that  purpose,  shall  preside. 

"  Art.  XII.  The  minutes  of  each  meeting  shall  be 
signed  by  the  chairman. 

"Art.  XIII.  This  constitution  shall  be  submitted  to 
the  next  General  Conference,  and,  if  the  objects  of  the 
society  be  approved  by  them,  they  shall  have  authority  to 
insert  such  article  or  articles  as  they  may  judge  proper, 
for  the  purpose  of  establishing  the  society  wherever  the 
Book  Concern  may  be  located ;  and  also  for  the  equitable 
and  equal  application  of  its  funds  for  the  accomplishment 
of  the  objects  herein  expressed,  and  for  the  purpose  of  de- 
positing its  funds  with  the  agents  of  the  Book  Concern, 
and  of  having  their  aid  in  printing,  purchasing,  and  distri- 
buting Bibles  and  Testaments:  Provided  always,  That 
the  revenue  of  the  society  shall  never  be  used  or  appro- 
priated otherwise  than  for  the  printing,  purchasing,  and 
distributing  Bibles  and  Testaments  under  the  direction  of 
the  managers ;  and  for  the  support  of  missionaries  who 
may  act  under  the  direction  of  the  bishops  and  conferences 
of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church, 

*'  Art.  XIV.  This  constitution,  being  submitted  and 
approved  according  to  the  provisions  of  the  preceding  ar- 
ticle, shall  not  be  altered  but  by  the  General  Confereace, 
on  the  recommendation  of  the  board  of  managers." 

After  receiving  subscribers  to  the  constitution,  the 
following  offi'^erri  and  nianagei-s  were  elected : — 

"  Rev.  William  M'KExrREE,  President. 

Enoch  George,  Isl  Vice  President. 

Robert  R.  Robert--.  'M  Vice  President. 

N.  Banos,  New-Y*'kc  /t.ierence,3e?  Vice  President. 
Mr.  Francis  Haj.l,  O  r.V 

Daniel  Avres,  Re.oMing  Secretary. 
Rev.  Thomas  Mason,  Corresponding  Secretary. 

Joshua  Soule,  Treasurer. 


86 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1819. 


"  Managers.— Joseph  Smith,  Robert  Mathison,  Joseph 
Sandforci,  George  Suckley,  Samuel  L.  Waldo,  Stephen 
Dando,  Samuel  B.  Harper,  Lancaster  S.  Burling,  William 
Duval,  Paul  Hick,  John  Westfield,  Thomas  Roby,  Benja- 
min Disbrow,  James  B.  Gascoigne,  William  A.  Merceiu, 
Philip  I.  Arcularius,  James  B.  Oakley,  George  Gaines, 
Dr.  Seaman,  Dr.  Gregory,  John  Boyd,  M.  H.  Smith,  Na- 
thaniel Jarvis,  Robert  Snow,  Andrew  Mercein,  Joseph 
Moser,  John  Paradise,  William  Myers,  William  B.  Skid- 
more,  Nicholas  Schureman,  James  Woods,  Abraham  Paul." 

Having  thus  formed  the  society,  and  created  a  board 
of  officers  and  managers,  the.  next  question  was,  how 
we  might  best  <  ulirt  the  feelings  and  engage  the  co-op- 
eration of  our  brethren  and  friends  generally  in  this  im- 
portant  cause.  To  do  tr.i'^  the  more  effectually,  at  the  first 
meeting  of  the  managers  the  following  address  and 
circular,  prepared  by  the  author,  who  had  been  ap- 
pointed for  that  purpose,  were  adopted,  and  ordered  to  be 
printed  and  circulated,  both  in  pamphlet  form  and  in  the 
Methodist  Magazine. 

"ADDRESS 
Of  the  Missionary  and  Bible  Society  of  the  Methodist 

Episcopal  Church  in  America. 
"  At  a  time  when  the  Christian  world  is  alive  to  every 
sentiment  of  humanity,  and  awake  to  the  temporal  and 
spiritaal  wants  of  men,  every  effort  directed  to  the  accom- 
plishment of  the  grand  climax  of  human  felicity  will,  by 
the  philanthropic  mind,  be  viewed  with  pleasure  and 
delight. 

"  It  is  the  peculiar  office  of  Christianity  to  inspire  in  the 

breasts  of  its  votaries  an  ardent  desire  for  the  happiness 

of  man.     Expanding  the  soul  with  the  purest  benevolence, 

wherever  its  influence  is  felt  it  expels  that  selfishness 

3 


1819.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH, 


87 


which  is  fed  aud  strengthened  by  avarice.  And  this  di- 
vine principle,  occupying  the  heart,  prompts  its  possessor 
to  the  selection  of  the  most  suitable  means  to  accomplish 
the  object  of  his  desire.  Ever  active,  and  directing  his 
activity  to  exalt  the  glory  of  God,  and  to  effect  the  present 
and  future  happiness  of  man,  whenever  suitable  means  aro 
presented  they  are  applied  with  assiduity,  and  with  cer- 
tain hope  of  success. 

"  Such,  we  trust,  are  the  objects  of  the  patrons  of  this 
society.  Beholding  with  pleasure  the  extensive  diffusion 
of  Scriptural  knowledge,  through  the  medium  of  mission- 
ary, Bible,  and  tract  societies,  and  believing  that  more 
efficient  means  to  extend  the  Redeemer's  kingdom  were 
within  their  power,  the  members  of  the  Missionary  and 
Bible  Society  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  America 
have  agreed  to  unite  their  strength  for  the  purpose  of  con- 
tributing their  mite  toward  sending  the  messengers  of 
peace  to  gather  in  the  lost  sheep  of  the  house  of  Israel. 

"  In  presenting  their  institution  to  their  brethren  and  to 
the  Christian  public,  they  deem  it  expedient  to  explain,  in 
a  few  words,  their  ultimate  design : — it  is,  as  expressed 
in  the  first  article  of  the  constitution,  To  enable  the  seve*- 
ral  annual  conferences  more  effectually  to  extend  their 
missionary  labors  throughout  the  United  States  and  else- 
where ;  to  afford  a  cheap  supply  of  Bibles  and  Tosvaments 
to  those  who  may  have  the  means  of  purchasing ;  and  to 
supply  the  destitute  gratis. 

"  The  primary  intention,  therefore,  of  this  institution  is 
an  contended  operation  of  the  great  missionary  system,  the 
success  of  which  has  been  witnessed  among  us  for  so 
many  years  ;  and  the  Bible  is  only  so  far  associated  with 
it  as  to  be  made  subservient  to  the  main  design.  That 
this  ought  to  be  the  leading  design  of  every  association 
which  has  for  ifs  final  object  the  diffusion  of  Christianity, 
will  appear  evi4ent  to  those  who  consider  that  it  has  beea 

'        9 


68 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1819. 


the  invariable  method  of  God  to  bring  mankind  to  the 
knowledge  of  the  truth  by  means  of  a  living  ministry.   The 
Bible  is  the  infallible  judge,  to  which  the  living  messen- 
ger  appeals  for  the  correctness  of  his  message ;  but  it  is 
the  word  of  truth,  addressed  by  the  ambassador  of  Christ 
to  the  understandings  and  consciences  of  men,  that  gene- 
rally lays  open  the  nakedness  of  the  human  heart,  and 
brings  the  guilty  sinner  to  Jesus  Christ.     Send,  therefore, 
the  living  messenger  of  God,  with  the  Bible  in  his  hands,' 
and  let  that  finally  decide  the  controversy  between  the 
smner  and  the  truths  delivered.     This  method,  we  believe, 
will  be  the  most  effectual  to  convey  the  glad  tidings  of 
salvation  to  those   who  are  perishing  for  lack  of  know- 
ledge. 

"  Moreover,  as  it  is  the  design  of  this  society  to  extend 
Itself,  if  possible,  by  means  of  auxiliary  societies,  through- 
out the  United  States,  and  to  engage  especially  the  co-ope- 
ration of  all  the  annual  conferences,  provision  is  made  in 
the  constitution  for  the  formation  of  auxiliary  societies, 
and  a  circular  addressed  to  them  on  the  subject ;  and  as' 
none  are  so  competent  to  take  an  impartial  and  compre- 
hensive view  of  the  various  parts  of  our  extensive  conti- 
nent as  the  General  Conference,  in  which  is  concentrated 
the  episcopal  authority  and  the  general  oversight  of  the 
whole  Church ;  and  as  it  would,  in  our  opinion,  very  much 
facilitate  the  operations,  and  greatly  contribute  to  accom- 
plish the  benevolent  objects  of  the  society,  to  unite  in 
some  measure  its  counsels  and  operations  with  the  book 
agency ;  we  have  provided  for  the  attainment  of  these  ob- 
jects, by  ceding  to  the  General  Conference  a  poorer  of 
inserting  such  articles  for  these  purposes  as  they  may 
judge  proper,  as  well  as  for  the  equitable  apportionment 
of  the  funds  of  the  society  among  the  several  annual  con- 
ferences.    As  our  ultimate  object  is  the  general  good  of 
mankind,  by  the  extensive  diffusion  of  experimental  and 


1819.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


89 


practical  godliness,  we  are  principally  solicitous  to  raise 
an  adequate  supply  for  such  men  of  God  as  may  volunteer 
their  services  in  the  cause  of  Christ,  leaving  to  the  epis- 
copacy the  selection  of  the  men,  as  well  as  the  place  of 
their  destination.  We  take  the  liberty  of  observing,  how- 
ever, that  our  views  are  not  restricted  to  our  own  ration  or 
color  ;  we  hope  the  aborigines  of  our  country,  the  Spa- 
niards of  South  America,  the  French  of  Louisiana  and 
Canada,  and  every  other  people  who  are  destitute  of  the 
invaluable  blessings  of  the  gospel,  as  far  as  our  means 
may  admit,  will  be  comprehended  in  the  field  of  the  labors 
of  our  zealous  missionaries.  To  accomplish  so  great  and 
so  glorious  an  object,  time,  union,  liberality,  patience,  and 
perseverance  are  all  necessary.  And  we  hope  to  exhibit, 
in  our  future  exertions,  evidence  of  our  zeal  in  providing 
pecuniary  aid  to  the  extent  of  our  power,  and  in  our  fer- 
vent prayers  and  earnest  wishes  for  the  success  of  our 
institution. 

"  With  an  object  of  such  magnitude  and  importance 
before  us,  we  think  we  cannot  appeal  in  vain  to  the  libe- 
rality of  our  brethren  and  friends  for  their  hearty  co- 
operation. 

"  When  we  review  our  ministry  from  the  commence- 
ment of  our  existence  as  a  separate  communion,  and  mark 
its  successiul  progress,  we  are  constrained  to  say,  What 
hath  God  wrought ! 

"  Contending  with  numerous  impediments,  they  have 
persevered  with  great  success  in  extendmg  the  triumphs  of 
the  cross  among  mankind.  We  ourselves  are,  we  humbly 
trust,  the  trophies  of  this  ministry.  By  the  blessing  of 
God  upon  their  labors,  it  was  this  same  ministry',  crossing 
the  *  watery  world'  in  the  character  of  missionaries,  that 
gave  the  first  impetus  to  that  mighty  exertion  in  the  Chris- 
tian cause,  by  which  the  present  generation  in  this  west- 
ern world  is  distinguished.     And  shall  we  be  wanting  in 


90 


A    lltNTOUV    OV   'lUK 


IIHH). 


our  oirorlN  to  nmul  lliiN  •  ^wpol  of  tlio  kinK«lom'  lo  our  fd- 
low-uuMi.  niiltiiMiiN  of  wluun  aw  yol  dwcIliuK  iu  ,hrknrss 
unit  in  thf  y/mhw  of  dun h  f 

*'  \v\m\  luolhrrn,  in  thn  nuijoNly  oi  your  HlriMi^lh  .•  iu 

tlio  utuno  of  luunnuu«>l,  (Joil  willi  un,  ^o  lorwunl :  (mhum^u. 

tnilo  your  foroo  iu  thJN  Nooioly  ;  and,  l.y  a  uuitoti  oxorti«.u, 

holp  t«»  p(H)pl.>  tlu)  rogiouH  orju^rtnuiiaHuipiiiuoHM,  l)y  <5ou- 

trihutiuK  t.»  N.Mul  tlu^  wonl  of  lil'n  (o  \\\i^  drNtituto  iuhiil.il- 

uulN  of  »»ur  (dllou  w.ulil.     W lint  hoart  chu  rouuiiu  uuuuivr.l, 

what  iiHUil  uutuupioyod,  whou  callotl  to  tuition  iu  a  cauH« 

H.>  iuiporlaut,  no  iuttMONtiunj,  no  mvxm\ !     I „,t,  hut  tho  I'rioiutN 

i>r  '/i«»u  j{iv.>  luiir  MH  uuiol)  lor  ih.^  wupport  of  uuNixiouarioN, 

and  for  tho  diNlrihutiou  of  th(^  word  of  lifo,  ai*  th.^  iutoiu|)o. 

rato  «lo  u»  gratify  and  piuup«»r  thoir  appolittvs,  aud  thoro 

nhidl  h«»  no  hick. 

'*  Although  th««  »M)UNtil»«liou  which  acoonipauioH  thin  aj|- 
drr.ss  nupiirrs  ilu>  payuu^ut  (»f  two  didhirs  aiunudly  to  cou- 
Nliluto  a  tutMuhor,  aud  Iho  payuu>ut  of  twouty  tlolhuN  at  on.) 
tiu«.»  to  ctMisiitutt^  a  uiouihtM-  for  lilV,  yot  tln"s  dooH  not  ox- 
chah^  donatiouH  to  any  auuuuit,  ^hmU  or  nuuiII.     K<MUiMuh«M-, 
tho  uiito  of  tho  poor  widow  wan  u«tt  only  atM'optnd,  l)ut  hor 
lihorality  was  lu^^ldy  apphiudod  l)y  hor'l-ord,  hocauNt'  Hho 
put  iu  att  htr  Iwttttf.     '  It  in  aoft^pt«nl  acotirdiu^r  (,»  what  a 
man  hatli.  and  not  aooortling  to  what  ho  hatli  not.'     Aiul 
if  »Hory  ouo  will  hctM)ino  a  choorfid  ^ivor,  •  atM-onlin^  to 
tho  ahility  which  Vhh\  «ivt>tli,'  wo  nIuiU  hoou  witness  thn 
risiivu  Kh>ry  of  tho  (^hurrh  ;  •  tho  solitary  places  shall  ho 
«Iad  lor  thoni'—tho  nn^sNtMij^crs  of  Zion~*  and  tho  wilder- 
ness shall  hlosNOUJ  as  tho  rose  ;'  the  pa^an  nations,  which 
inhahit  the  wilds  of  America,  mul  the  desolate  iuhahitauts 
of  our  new  states  and  territorit.s,  shall  hail  tho  eOects  of 
your  hounty ;— nations  ludiorn  shall  riso  up  and  call  you 
blessed.     Let.  tlu>n,  all  hearts  bo  warm,  and  all  luinds 
ai'tive,  until  tho  '  ends  of  tho  earth  soo  tho  salvation  of  our 
(^od.'" 
3 


IHIO.J 


Til 


MKTIlOIHn       KI'l«fI01»AI.    OMIIItfllf. 


91 


i< 


ClltCIILAK. 


managnM  of  tho  Missttmury  mul  IHhh  Society  of 
the  MelluHliM  hptsroptU  Church  m  America  hr^  loiivn  lo 
IMOHoiit  to  tho  Movoriil  iiniiuiil  c«mrM.uuNm,  iiinl  tliroiiwli 
lliom  to  tho  innuhorH  of  our  Church  Konorully,  a  copy  oC 
thoir  ml.hvNs  and  ronNiiiuiiou,  with  on  imnuiHl  Noliciliuion 
(luit  rdici.Mif,  uunxm  luiiy  ho  miophul  to  oNiahliMh  MociolioM 
uuMlitiry  to  thm. 

"  llaviuH  huiK  ho.-u  convim'od  ol  iho  uoccHNity  of  Nonut 
iuNtituiioii,  hy  which  iM,  .uii.iry  aid  couhl  ho  aHonhul  to 
cnubh'  tho  c.)iirorcu(tcH  to  carry  on  thoir  uiiHHionary  hihorM 
<»»  »  "K'lo  cxtcn.hMl  plan,  iho  ohjoct  of  ih.ur  d»<sirc  m  at 
Icit^di  NO  far  acn»nipiiNhcd  in  iho  formation  of  thin  Hocicty, 
ll»r  nal  and  profoNwod  ohjm;l  of  wliid  Ih,  t,»  cxt.uul  the  in- 
<liu<nc<»  «.f  .livino  truth,  hy  nioauH  of  thoMo  niiNHJiinaricH 
who  nmy,  from  time  to  time,  ho  approved  and  cmidoycd 
liy  the  hiNhopH  imd  conforcnccM  for  that  purpoMct. 

"You  arc  referred  to  tho  pniccdin/,r  ad(hcHN  f<M- nioro 
piulitiuhir  infornuition  of  our  viowM,  and  the  reaHouM  lor 
Noiu«^  of  I  he  artich<H  of  tiio  conHlitution.  A  ny  anuauhnenlH 
wliich  may  ho  HU«)r„MU„l  hy  citimr  of  the  annual  conler- 
(uuuiN  can  h<i  forwarded  to  the  nianaKerw,  and,  if  deemed 
cxpi-dient,  tlie  (u^ui^ral  Conference,  agreeably  to  tho  pro- 
viniouK  of  the  lawl  article  of  tho  tM)nHtitulion,  can  adopt 
them. 

"  Vou  are  likewiHe  preNenltul  with  ihcMlrauKJit  of  a  con- 
Ntitution  deenuui  Nuitahle  for  auxiliary  MocietioH,  leaving  it 
to  yon  to  nnike  mucIi  alterations  as  local  circuniHtanceM 
may  seem  to  retpiire.  Thin  xh  done  with  a  view  to  pro- 
tluce  as  much  uniformity  in  ilm  (»|)erationM  of  Mio  variouH 
auxiliaries  as  circumstances  will  admit. 

•'  Tlu*  nuinaM<MH  bej,^  leave  lo  sujrjresl  tlui  proprif^ty  of 
forming'  one  society  only  auxiliary  to  this,  in  «iach  confer- 
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92  A   HISTORY   OF    THE  [1819. 

Baltimore,  Chaileston,  Boston,  &c.,  &c.,  and  that  the  other 
societies  which  may  be  formed  within  the  limits  of  each 
conference  become  branches  of  that.  This  method,  it  is 
tljought,  will  greatly  facilitate  the  operations  of  the  society, 
and  produce  greater  energy  in  the  execution  of  its  benevo- 
lent designs,  than  it  would  to  make  every  subordinate 
society  immediately  auxiliary  to  the  parent  society.  And 
if  the  several  annual  conferences  unite  their  counsels,  and 
recommend  the  subject  to  the  people  of  their  charge,  with 
practical  zeal  and  energy,  it  is  believed  that  auxiliary  and 
branch  societies  may  be  established  in  every  city  and  cir- 
cuit throughout  our  extensive  work. 

"  According  to  a  recent  report  of  the  *  General  Wesleyan 
Methodist  Missionary  Society ;  now  in  successful  operation 
m  England,  our  brethren  in  Europe,  during  the  last  year, 
have  raised  upward  of  eighty  thousand  dollars  for  the  sup- 
port of  domestic  and  foreign  missionaries  !  Through  this 
generous  pecuniary  aid  they  now  employ  one  hundred  and 
three  missionaries.  How  much,  therefore,  may  we  do,  if 
efficient  means  are  used  to  combine  our  strength ! 

"  The  object  contemplated  by  this  society,  the  mana- 
gers think,  is  of  sufficient  importance  and  utility  to  recom- 
mend itself  to  every  considerate  and  pious  mind ;  and 
therefore  they  need  say  no  more,  than  to  add  their  prayers, 
and  request  yours,  that  we  may  all  be  guided  by  the  wis- 
dom that  Cometh  f'om  above  in  all  our  attempts  to  promote 
peace  on  earth  and  good-mil  among  men. 

'•  Signed  by  order  of  the  board  of  managers, 

N.  Bangs,  Chairman, 
New-York,  April  21,  1819. 

"  P.  S,  As  soon  as  any  ^auxiliary  society  is  formod,  it  is 
requested  that  official  notice  thereof  be  forwarded  to  our 
corresponding  secretary,  Rev.  Thomas  Mason,  No.  41 
John-street,  New-York." 
3 


1819.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL   CHURCH. 


93 

Soon  after  the  society  was  thus  organized,  oiv  plans 
and  proceedings  were  submitted  to  the  Baltimore  con- 
ference by  the  Rev.  Joshua  Soule;  and  it  was  no  small 
encouragement  to  be  assured  that  the  brethren  of  that 
conference  most  heartily  approved  of  our  objects,  and 
passed  spirited  resolutions  to  carry  our  plans  into  effect 
The  Virginia,  New-York,  and  New-England  confer- 
ences passed  similar  resolutions,  recommending  the  so- 
ciety to  the  patronage  and  support  of  the  people  of  their 
charge. 

The  first  auxiliary  society  was  the  Female  Mission- 
ary Society  of  New-York,  which  was  organized  in  July, 
1819.  Then  followed  the  Young  Men's  of  New- York. 
Courtlandt,  Stamford,  Genesee  conference,  the  Domestic 
Missionary  Society  of  Boston,  and  Columbia,  of  South 
Carolina,  all  which  became  auxiliary  in  the  course  of 
the  year.  These  movements  were  sources  of  much  com- 
fort, and  greatly  encouraged  the  officers  and  managers 
to  persevere  in  the  work  they  had  so  happily  begun. 

Soon  after  our  organization  a  letter  was  addressed, 
by  order  of  the  managers,  to  Bishop  M'Kendree,  stating 
to  him  the  plan  and  objects  of  the  society,  and  request- 
ing his  opinion  respecting  the  practicabUity  and  the 
most  suitable  means  of  sending  the  gospel  to  the 
French  of  Louisiana,  and  to  the  destitute  inhabitants 
of  Florida.  The  foUowing  is  an  extract  from  the 
bishop's  answer : — 

«  Your  plan  meets  my  views  of  preaching  the  gospel  to 
every  creature  better  than  any  one  I  have  yet  seen. 

"  1.  Because  that  body  of  missionaries  whom  you  intend 

to  employ  have  mutually  agreed  to  renounce  ease  and 

worldly  mierest,  and  devote  their  time,  their  talents,  and 

Qoir  labors.     They  know  no  geographical  boundaries ; 

3 


94 


A    HISTORY  OF   THE 


[1819. 


but,  like  the  gospel  which  they  preach,  embrace  the  poor 
as  well  as  the  rich  of  every  nation  and  condition  of  men ; 
and  in  order  to  perpetuate  the  blessings  of  the  gospel  to 
all  classes  of  men,  they  voluntarily  subject  themselves  to 
a  system  of  rules  and  regulations  calculated  to  promote 
so  desirable  an  end,  and  labor  for  the  reformation  and 
happiness  of  mankind,  which  is  the  ultimate  design  of  the 
gospel. 

"  2.  It  promises  that  pecuniary  aid,  for  wan.  of  which 
we  have  had  the  mortification  of  seeing  many  well-devised 
plans  frustrated,  and  many  hopeful  prospects  fade  away. 

"  You  are  sufficiently  acquainted  with  the  state  of  things 
in  Canada, 

"  Florida,  the  state  of  Louisiana,  and  the  Missouri  ter- 
ritory form  our  western  frontiers,  and  furnish  a  large  field 
for  missionary  enterprise.  In  these  bounds  there  are  many 
French,  some  of  them  friendly  to  our  views  of  religion. 
Believing  that  it  would  be  productive  of  much  good,  we 
have  long  wished  for,  and  frequently  endeavored  to  pro- 
cure, ministers  who  would  be  itinerant  ministers  indeed, 
to  send  to  our  western  frontiers  to  preach  to  their  inhabit- 
ants in  French ;  but  we  have  been  hitherto  disappointed." 

About  the  same  time  that  this  society  was  established 
in  the  city  of  New- York,  the  Missionary  Society  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church  within  the  bounds  of  the 
Philadelphia  conference  was  formed ;  and  though  it  has 
never  thought  it  best  to  become  auxiliary,  it  has  pursued 
the  even  tenor  of  its  way  from  that  time  to  this,  appro- 
priating its  funds  for  the  promotion  of  the  same  benevo- 
lent objects,  and  has  done  mtich  in  furthe  ance  of  the 
cause  of  missions. 

While  these  efforts  were  making  to  enlarge  the 
sphere  of  our  operations  by  means  of  missionary  insti- 
tutions and  labors,  the  work  in  general,  on  the  circuits 
3 


1819.] 


METHODIST    EPI3C0PAX    CHURCH. 


95 


and  stations,  was  in  a  state  of  prosperity,  as  may  be 
seen  by  reference  to  the  number  of  Church  members. 
In  the  Scioto  and  Ohio  districts,  in  Chilicothe,  Ohio, 
and  in  Schenectady,  New- York,  and  some  other 
places,  there  were  encouraging  revivals  of  religion. 
There  was,  however,  a  very  considerable  secession 
among  the  colored  people  in  the  city  of  New-York. 

We  have  already  seen  that  the  secession  of  Allen  and 
his  party  created  much  uneasiness  in  the  minds  of  the 
colored  members  of  our  Church,  both  in  Philadelphia 
and  New- York,  and  that  quite  a  number,  particularly 
in  the  former  city,  were  induced  to  join  the  disaffected 
party.  Allen  had  succeeded  also  in  establishing  a 
small  congregation  in  the  city  of  New- York,  over  which 
he  had  ordained  a  preacher  by  the  name  of  Miller,*  whc 
had  been  for  several  years  a  local  preachei  in  oui 
Church. 

There  were  in  this  city,  altogether,  about  one  thou- 
sand colored  people  attached  to  our  Church,  among 
whom  were  several  local  preachers  of  piety  and  talent. 
Tliese  had  heretofore  been  under  the  pastoral  oversight 
of  a  white  elder,  stationed  by  the  bishop,  who  adminis- 
tered to  them  the  ordinances,  exercised  discipline,  held 
love-feasts,  and  generally  preached  to  them  once  every 
sabbath— the  other  appointments  being  filled  by  their 
own  local  preachers.  For  this  service  the  trustees  of 
the  v/hite  churches  thought  it  no  more  than  just  that 
the  colored  congregation  should  pay  something  toward 
the  support  of  the  preacher  who  had  charge  of  them. 
This  became  one  source  of  complaint,  while  others 

*  He  afterward  left  the  Allenites  and  connected  himsell 
with  the  Ahican  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  and  is  now  an 
elder  among  them. 


96 


A   HISTORF    OF   THE 


[1819. 


ilii: 


thought  it  was  degrading  to  them  to  be  in  any  way 
dependent  upon  white  men  for  the  administration  of 
the  ordinances  and  the  government  of  the  Church. 
Accordingly  symptoms  of  dissatisfaction  had  shown 
themselves  for  several  years  on  these  and  collateral  sub- 
jects ;  and  though  various  attempts  had  been  made  to 
remove  their  grounds  of  complaint,  they  had  proved 
unavailing;  this  year,  therefore,  they  declared  them- 
selves independent. 

They  did  not,  however,  connect  themselves  with  the 
Allenites.  As  they  had  succeeded  in  building  thern  a 
commodious  house  of  worship  in  Church-street,  had 
several  local  preachers  and  some  elders  among  them- 
selves, and  not  having  full  confidence  in  Allen  and  his 
partisans,  they  saw  fit  to  organize  themselves  into  an 
independent  body,  called  the  African  Methodist  Episco- 
pal Church,  under  the  government  of  elders  of  their 
own  choosing,  altering  our  Discipline  so  far  as  to  make 
it  conform  to  their  peculiar  organization,  electing  annu- 
ally one  of  their  elders  as  a  general  superintendent, 
without,  however,  setting  him  apart  to  that  office  by 
prayer  and  imposition  of  hands.  With  thesj  excep- 
tions, it  is  believed  that  they  retain  the  doctrines  and 
discipline  of  the  Church  they  have  left^  having  their 
annual  and  quarterly  conferei  ces,  class  meetings,  lo\ 
feasts,  and  sacramental  services,  as  provided  for  in  our 
Discipline. 

One  principal  reason  assigned  by  themselves  for  this 
separate  organization  was,  that  colored  preachers  were 
not  recognized  by  our  conferences  as  traveling  preach- 
ers; and,  therefore,  however  much  a  local  preacher 
might  labor  in  word  and  doctrine  for  the  benefit  of  his 
colored  brethren,  he  could  neither  exercise  the  functions 
9 


1819.] 


KETHODMT  EPISCOPAL  CHURCH. 


mt 


of  pastor  in  the  goveramental  department,  nor  receive  a 
pecuniary  support  for  his  services.  To  remedy  this  in- 
convenience, and  remove  the  disability  under  which 
they  labored  in  this  respect,  they  withdrew  from  our 
pastoral  oversight,  established  a  conference  of  their  own, 
and  commenced  the  itinerant  mode  of  preaching  the 
gospel. 

By  this  secession  we  lost  fourteen  colored  local 
preachers,  and  nine  hundred  and  twenty-nine  private 
members,  including  class-leaders,  exhorters,  and  stew- 
ards. But  though  they  thus  "  went  out  from  us,"  they 
have  never,  I  believe,  manifested  any  rancorous  or  bitter 
spirit  toward  their  old  friends,  but  have  cultivated  a 
feeling  of  friendship  and  brotherly  affection ;  and  there 
is  reason  to  believe  that,  though  they  may  not  have 
prospered  in  the  same  ratio  in  which  they  did  before 
their  separation,  they  have  retained  their  piety  and 
zeal,  and  have  managed  their  affairs  in  an  orderly 
manner. 

It  is  now  (1839)  twenty  years  since  the  secession 
took  place,  and  the  degree  of  their  prosperity  may  be 
estimated  from  the  following  statement  of  their  number 
of  circuits  and  stations,  preachers  and  members,  taken 
from  their  Minutes  for  1839. 

Circuits  21 ;  preachers  32 ;  members  2,608.  These 
circuits  and  stations  are  found  in  the  states  of  New- 
Jersey,  New-York,  Connecticut,  Rhode  Island,  and 
Massachusetts.  In  the  city  of  New-York,  where  the 
secession  originated,  they  have  a  membership  of  1,325, 
making  an  increase  of  396  in  twenty  years,  which  is 
by  no  means  in  a  ratio  with  their  increase  while  they 
remained  under  the  care  of  their  white  brethren.  In 
the  city  of  Boston,  however,  their  success  has  been 

r  3 


98  A.   HISTORY    OF    THE  [1819 

greater  in  proportion.  In  1819  they  had  only  33 ;  but 
now,  in  1839,  they  have  126. 

They  will  not  allow  any  slaveholder  to  become  or 
remain  a  member  of  their  church. 

As  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  never  derived 
any  temporal  emolument  from  them,  so  we  have  sus- 
tained no  otlier  damage  by  the  secession  than  what 
may  arise  from  missing  the  opportunity  of  doing  them 
all  the  good  in  our  power  as  their  pastors.  And  if  a 
desire  for  independence  on  their  part  has  deprived  us 
of  this  opportunity,  having  done  what  we  could  as 
Christian  ministers  to  prevent  the  rupture,  I  trust  we 
shall  be  absolved  from  all  blame,  be  the  consequences 
what  they  may.  We  cannot  do  otherwise  than  wish 
them  all  spiritual  and  temporal  blessings  in  Christ  Je- 
sus. Though  formally  separated  from  us  in  name,  we 
stUl  love  them  as  our  spiritual  children,  and  stand  ready 
to  aid  them,  as  fer  as  we  may,  in  extending  the  Re- 
deemer's kingdom  among  men. 

Forty-seven  preachers  located  this  year,  fifteen  were 
returned  supernumerary,  thirty-six  superannuated,  two 
were  expelled,  and  nine  had  finished  their  work  and 
gone  to  their  reward.  These  latter  were,  Pletcher 
Harris,  Thomas  Lucas,  Joseph  Stone,  John*  Wesley 
Bond,  Joseph  Totten,  Daniel  Moore,  Thomas  Thorp, 
(Stephen,  Jacob,  Jason  Walker. 

Joseph  Totten  had  long  been  a  faithful  laborer  in  his 
Lord's  vineyard,  having  entered  the  traveling  ministry 
in  1792,  and  continued  steadfast  in  his  work  until  death 
signed  his  release. 

Thomas  Thorp  wa  young  in  the  ministry,  but  was 
a  man  of  precocious  genius,  possessing  a  remarkable 
3 


1820.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL  CHURCH. 


99 


aptitude  for  the  acquirement  of  knowledge,  and  for 
imparting  it  to  others. 

John  Wesley  Bond  was  for  several  years  the  traveling 
companion  of  Bishop  Asbury  during  the  close  of  his 
days,  and  attended  him  with  the  fidelity  and  affection 
of  a  son,  was  witn  him  in  his  last  sickness  and  death, 
watching  his  parting  breath,  while  the  bishop  leaned 
bis  dying  head  upon  his  arm.  Of  his  excellent  spirit, 
his  integrity,  and  faithful  services,  particularly  toward 
him  as  his  traveling  companion.  Bishop  Asbury  bear£ 
an  ample  testimony.  He  ended  his  days  in  peace  and 
triumph. 

The  others  enumerated  were  faithful  in  their  calling 
and  happy  in  their  death. 


Numbers  in  the  Church. 

Whites.          Colored.          Total. 

Preachers, 

This  year 

201,750      39,174    240,924 

812 

Last  year 

190,477      39,150    229,627 

748 

Increase         11,273 


24      11,297 


64 


The  secession  of  the  colored  people  in  the  city  of 
New- York,  amounting  to  about  nine  hundred,  accounts 
for  the  small  increase  of  that  class  to  the  membership ; 
while  the  general  increase  shows  the  happy  results  of 
the  work  among  the  white  population. 

1820.  Previously  to  the  session  of  the  General  Confer- 
ence, May  1  of  this  year,  the  Ohio,  Missouri,  Tennes- 
see, Mississippi,  South  Carolina,  Virginia,  Baltimore, 
and  Philadelphia  conferences  held  their  sessions  and 
elected  their  delegates— the  New- York,  New-England, 
and  Genesee  conferences,  having  held  theirs  after  the 
session  of  the  General  Conference,  elected  their  dele- 
gates the  year  before. 

8 


^ 


100     ,  A   KI8T0RT  OF  TH«  [1820 

The  reports  from  various  parts  of  the  work  this  year 
were  highly  favorable,  the  increase  to  the  membership 
being  nearly  twenty  thousand.  The  establishment  of 
the  Tract  and  Missionary  Societies,  and  the  publication 
of  the  Methodist  Magazine,  added  a  fresh  stimulant  to 
preachers  and  people,  and  tended  much  to  enlarge  the 
field  of  labor,  as  well  as  to  encourage  the  hearts  of  those 
who  were  panting  for  the  salvation  of  the  world. 

But,  before  giving  a  detailed  account  of  these  things, 
we  shall  notice  the  doings  of  the  General  Conference. 


CHAPTER  V. 


The  General  Conference  of  1820. 

This  conference  assembled  in  the  city  of  Baltimore, 
May  1,  1820,  and  was  composed  of  the  following  dele- 
giites : — 

New-York  Conference 
Daniel  Ostrander,  Eben  Smith, 

Henry  Stead,  Freeborn  Garrettson, 

Nathan  Bangs,  -         Phineas  Rice, 

Poter  P.  Sandford,  Joshua  Soiile, 

Samuel  Draper,         ^  Elijah  VVoolsey, 

Samuel  Mervvin,  Marvin  Richardson, 

Ebenezer  Washburn. 
New-England  Conference. 
George  Pickering,  Erastus  Otis, 

Elijah  Hedding,  Daniel  Fillmore, 

Timothy  Merritt,  Solomon  Sias, 

Martin  Ruter,  David  Kilboum, 

Joseph  A.  Men-ill,  Oliver  Beal. 


1820.] 


METHODIST  EPISCOPA£   CHURCH. 


lOi 


Charles  Giles, 
William  Case, 
Abner  Chase, 


Jolin  Collins, 
Jacob  Young, 
James  B.  Finley, 
William  Dixon, 


Genesee  Conference. 

Mannaduke  Pearce, 
Henry  Ryan, 
Loring  Grant, 

Israel  Chamberlin. 

Ohio  Conference. 

Alexander  Cummins, 
Jonathan  Stamper, 
James  Quinn, 
Walter  Griffith. 


Missouri  Conference. 
Samuel  H.  Thompson,  John  Scripps, 

Jesse  Walker, 

Mississippi  Conference. 
Thomas  Griffin,  John  Lane. 

Tennessee  Conference. 
James  Axley,  Peter  Cartwright, 

Jesse  Cunningham,  William  Adams, 

Marcus  Lindsey,  Charles  Holliday. 

South  Carolina  Conference. 
Samuel  Dunwody,  Lewis  Myers, 

William  M.  Kennedy,  Daniel  Asbury^ 


Joseph  Travis, 
James  Norton, 


Daniel  Hall, 
John  T.  Weaver, 
William  Compton, 
Peyton  Anderson, 

Joseph  Frye, 
John  Emory, 


William  Capers, 
James  O.  Andrew, 
Samuel  K.  Hodges. 

Virginia  Conference. 

James  Patterson, 
Edward  Cannon, 
Ethelbert  Drake, 
Matthew  M.  Dance. 

Baltimore  Conference. 

Stephen  G.  Roszel, 
Lewis  R.  Fechtig, 


hit 


102  A   BISTORT   OF    THE 

Beverly  Waugh,  Alfred  Griffith, 

Nelson  Reed,  James  M'Cann, 

Thomas  Burch. 

Philadelphia  Conference. 
Ezekiel  Cooper,  James  Smith, 


[1820. 


Stephen  Martindale, 
Lawrence  M'Combs, 
Solomon  Sharpe, 
George  WooUey, 
William  Ryland, 
Thomas  Ware, 


Joseph  Lybrand, 
Andrew  Monroe, 
Gerard  Morgan, 
James  Ridgway, 
Joshua  Wells, 
James  Bateman. 


Bishops  M'Kendree,  George,  and  Roberts  were  pre- 
sent, and  the  conference  was  opened  by  Bishop  M'Ken- 
dree by  reading  a  portion  of  the  word  of  God,  singing, 
and  prayer ;  and  he  then  informed  the  conference  that, 
in  consequence  of  ill  health,  he  should  not  be  able  to 
discharge  the  duties  of  the  chair,  but  should  avail  him- 
self of  every  opportunity  which  his  health  might  permit 
to  assist  his  colleagues  in  guiding  the  counsels  of  the 
conference.     I  regret  that  I  am  not  able  to  find  a  copy 
of  the  written  address  which  he  afterward  presented, 
containing  recommendations  of  such  subjects  as  he  con- 
sidered worthy  the  attention  of  the  conference.     From 
the  character  and  duties  of  the  committees,  howeve-,  it 
appears  that  the  address  referred  to  the  state  of  the 
episcopacy  J — the  local  preachers, — to  the  instruction 
of  children, — to  the  condition  of  the  slaves, — to  the 
cause  of  missions, — to  the  use  of  spirituous  liquors, — 
to  the  condition  of  our  houses  of  worship,  and  to  the 
boundaries  of  the   annual  conferences — all  which 
were  referred  to  appropriate  committees. 

Bishops  George  and  Roberts,  in  a  verbal  communi- 
cation, called  the  attention  of  the  conference  to  the  state 
3 


1820.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  103 

of  things  in  Canada,  and  to  the  subject  of  locating 
traveling  preachers  without  their  consent,  which 
were  referred  to  committees. 

The  foUowing  is  an  extract  from  the  report  of  the 
committee  on  the  episco[;acy : 

After  approving  of  the  manner  in  which  the  bishops 
had  discharged  their  onerous  duties  during  the  past 
four  years,  the  committee  add 

« In  relation  to  strengthening  the  episcopacy,  they  have 
regarded  with  deep  and  affectionate  concern  the  declining 
health  and  strength  of  our  senior  superintendent.  Worn 
down  by  long,  extensive,  and  faithful  labors  in  the  sendee 
of  God  and  the  Church,  your  committee  feel  a  solicitude, 
which  they  doubt  not  is  equally  felt  by  the  conference, 
that  every  practicable  provision  may  be  made  for  his  relief 
and  comfort,  hoping  that  by  a  prudent  relaxation  from  labor 
for  a  time,  the  Church  may  yet  be  blessed  with  the  benefit 
of  his  very  desirable  services  and  counsel." 

Whereupon  the  following  resolutions  were  submitted 
by  the  committee  and  concurred  in  by  the  conference  :— 

"  1.  That  it  is  the  wish  and  desire  of  this  General  Con- 
ference that  Bishop  M'Kendree,  dunng  his  afflictions  and 
debility,  should  travel  in  such  directions,  or  remain  in  such 
places,  as  he  may  judge  most  conducive  to  his  own  health 
and  comfort,  and  that  he  be  accordingly,  at  the  close  of 
the  conference,  respectfully  and  affectionately  requested 
so  to  do. 

"2.  That,  whenever  Bisihop  M'Kendree  shall  think 
himself  able,  it  is  the  desire  of  this  conference  that  he 
should  continue,  so  far  as  his  health  will  permit,  the  exer- 
cise of  his  episcopal  functions  and  superintending  care. 

"  3.  That  the  committee  appointed  by  the  last  General 
Conference,  to  make  provision  for  the  famiUes  of  the 


rW'f  '• 


'!!• 


104  A  M;iJTOHT  OF  TUB  [1820. 

bishops,  are  hereby  continued,  and  that  the  same  com- 
mittee be  directed  to  take  into  consideration  tJhe  present 
state  of  Bishop  M'Kendree's  health,  and  to  provide  for 
defraying  any  extra  expenses  which,  in  their  judgment, 
his  afflictions  may  make  requisite." 

This  affectionate  regard  of  the  conference  for  the 
bishop  was  a  source  of  great  consolatio?!  to  him,  and 
counterbalanced,  in  some  measure  at  least,  the  mental 
anxieties  he  suffered  at  this  conference,  in  consequence 
of  the  conflicting  opinions  respecting  tFie  manner  in 
which  the  presiding  eltiers  should  be  appointed,  and  in 
what  their  duties  should  consist.    But  as  all  these 
th.ngs,  together  with  the  election  and  resignation  of 
another  bishop,  have  been  fully  detailed  in  vol.  ii,  page 
330,  I  shall  add  nothing  more  in  reference  to  them 
here,  only  to  say,  that  Bishop  M'Kendree  expressed  his 
high  gratification  for  the  respect  and  sympathy  thus 
manifesied  toward  him  by  the  conference  in  his  afflic- 
tions, and  for  the  confidence  reposed  in  the  integrity 
with  which  he  had  administered  the  jjcvernment  of 
i\i?i  Church. 

We  have  befGre  remarked  that  the  cause  of  education 
had  bsen  abandoned  by  our  Church  since  the  destruc- 
tion of  Cckeabury  College  the  second  time  by  fire,  and 
that  the  consequences  of  this  long  neglect  of  so  important 
a  cause  began  to  bear  injuriously  upon  the  character 
and  prosperity  of  the  Church.  This  had  been  painfully 
felt  and  feelingly  expressed  by  some  of  the  most  en- 
lightened members  of  our  Church,  both  ministers  and 
people,  and  some  incipient  steps  had  been  taken  by  the 
New-England  and  New- York  conferences  to  remedy 
the  evil.  In  1817  an  academy  had  been  established  in 
Newnsarket,  N.  H.,  under  the  Datrtmsire  ni  th«  N««r- 
3  '      '"^ 


k 

i 


•      ■      ^ 


[1820. 

me  com- 
j  present 
)vide  for 
iidgment, 


ucatiou 
lestruc- 
re,  and 
portant 
aracter 
infully 
ost  en- 
rs  and 
by  the 
emedy 
ihed  in 


1820.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  105 

England  conference,  and  another  in  the  city  of  New- 
York  in  1819,  under  the  patronage  of  the  New- York 
conference.     Wishing  to  secure  also  the  patronage  of 
the  General  Conference,  as  far  as  might  be  consistent, 
and  likewise  to  awaken  a  spirit  favorable  to  the  cause 
of  edacation  generaliy,  the  friends  of  these  institutions 
presented  to  this  General  Conference  their  respective 
constitinions  and  plans  of  procedure,  praying  that  the 
bishops  might  be  authorized  to  appoint  principals  from 
among  the  traveling  preachers  for  a  longer  space  than 
two  years.     This  authority  was  granted,  and  the  whole 
subject  was  referred  to  a  committee,  the  report  of  which 
m  the  following  words,  was  adopted  by  the  conference. 
"  The  committee  appointed  to  take  into  consideration 
he  propriety  of  recon.mending  to  the  nnnual  conferences 
the  establishment  of  seminaries  of  learning,  having  had  the 
subject  under  deliberation,  beg  leave  to  submit  the  following 

"  REPORT. 
"Your  committee  regret  the  want  of  time,  as  well  as 
talent,  to  take  that  extended  and  comprehensive  view  of 
the  subject  which  its  importance  demands  ;  but  it  is  cause 
of  greater  regret  still,  considering  the  rapid  improvement 
ot  society  m  almost  every  science,  end  the  extension  of 
our  Church  through  the  propagation  of  those  divine  prin- 
ciples  which  we  consider  so  unspeakably  precious,  that 
this  subject  has  not  sooner  claimed  the  attention  of  the 
General  Conference. 

"Almost  all  seminaries  of  learning  in  our  country,  of 
much  celebrity,  are  under  the  control  of  Calvinistic  or  of 
lopkmsian  principles,  or  otherwise  are  managed  by  men 
denying  the  fundamental  doctrines  of  the  gospel.  If  anv 
of  our  pooph,,  therefore,  wish  to  give  their  sons  or  daugh- 
ters a  fimshed  education,  they  are  under  the  necessity  of 
._.„,,,„„  „,^,,„  .„  j^_  rauiittgement  of  those  institutions 


^06  A   HISTORY   OF   THE  [1820. 

which  are  more  or  less  hostile  to  our  views  of  the  grand 
doctrines  of  Christianity. 

"  Another  capital  defect  in  most  seminaries  of  learning, 
your  committee  presume  to  think,  is,  that  experimental  and 
practical  godliness  is  considered  only  of  secondary  import- 
ance ;  whereas,  in  the  opinion  of  your  committee,  this 
ought  to  form  the  most  prominent  feature  in  every  literary 
institution.  Religion  and  learning  should  mutually  assist 
each  other,  and  thus  connect  the  happiness  of  both  worlde 
together. 

"  On  account,  however,  of  the  different  usages  which 
prevail  in  the  several  sections  of  our  widely  extended 
country,  originating  from  state  regulations,  &c.,  your  com- 
mittee think  it  impossible  for  the  General  Conference  to 
adopt  a  system  of  regulations  on  this  subject  uniformly 
the  same  for  each  annual  conference.  But  that  each  con- 
ference should  exert  itself  to  adopt  some  method  for  such 
advantages  to  the  rising  generation  as  may  be  had  from 
literary  institutions  which  combine  religion  and  learning 
together,  it  is  thought,  there  can  be  no  doubt. 

"  Your  committee  rejoice  in  being  able  to  say,  that  two 
of  your  annual  conferences,  namely,  N^w-England  and 
New- York,  have  established  seminaries,  which,  in  a  good 
degree,  answer  the  description  your  committee  would  re- 
commend. These  institutions  afford  an  encouraging  pros- 
pect of  usefulness.  Your  committee  therefore  recommend 
the  adoption  of  the  following  resolutions,  viz.  : 

"1.  Resolved,  by  the  delegates  of  the  annual  confer- 
ences in  General  Conference  assembled,  that  it  be,  and  it 
is  hereby,  rec  ..nmended  to  all  the  annual  conferences  to 
establish,  as  soon  as  practicable,  literary  institutions,  under 
their  own  control,  in  such  way  and  manner  as  they  may 
think  proper. 

"2.  Resolved,  &c..  That  it  be  the  special  duty  of  the 
episcopacy  to  use  their  influence  to  carry  the  above  reso- 


1820.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  107 

lution  into  effect,  by  recommending  the  subject  to  each 
annual  conference. 

«  3.  Resolved,  «fec.,  That  the  following  amendment  to 
the  second  answer  of  the  third  question  of  the  fourth  sec- 
tion of  the  first  chapter  of  the  Discipline  be  adopted,  viz.  • 
after  the  word  preachers,  let  there  be  added.  And  the  pre- 
sidents, principals,  or  teachers  of  seminaries  of  learning, 
which  are  or  may  be  under  our  superintendence. 

«  4.  Resolved,  &c.,  That  the  principals  of  the  Wesleyan 
Academy  and  Wesleyan  Seminary  be  requested  to  for- 
ward a  copy  of  their  constitutions  to  each  of  the  annual 
conferences. 

"  5.  Resolved,  &c.,  That  a  copy  of  this  report  be  re- 
corded  on  the  journals  of  the  several  annual  conferences." 

The  adoption  of  this  report  by  the  General  Confer- 
ence, no  doubt,  tended  greatly  to  subserve  the  cause  of 
education,  and  to  diffuse  among  us  more  generally  than 
heretofore  ?.  desire  to  avail  ourselves  of  the  advantages 
to  be  derived  from  literary  and  scientific  improvement. 

That  opposition  should  be  manifested  to  these  efforts 
to  raise  the  standard  of  education,  by  any  of  the  disci- 
ples of  the  illustrious  Wesley,  whose  profound  learning 
added  so  much  splendor  to  his  character  as  an  evange- 
lical nunister,  may  seem  strange  to  some.     This,  how- 
ever, was  the  fact ;  and  their  unreasonable  opposition, 
exemplified  in  a  variety  of  ways,  tended  not  a  little  to 
paralyze,  for  a  season,  the  efforts  of  those  who  had  en- 
listed in  this  cause ;  while  the  apathy  of  others  retarded 
Its  progress,  and  made  its  final  success  somewhat  un- 
certain.    And  it  has  not  been  without  much  labor  and 
persevering  industry  that  this  opposition  has  been  mea- 
surably overcome,  and  the  dormant  energies  of  the 
Church  awakened  and  excited  to  action  in  favor  of  this 

8 


if!  ; 


lOS 

A   HISTORY   0»  TB8  [IgJO. 

noble  eu«,rprfee  lu>  onward  march,  however,  ha,  beea 
hailed  with  no  less  deUght  by  its  friends  thkn  de^ 
ca^d  by  ite  enemies,  while  its  success  thus  far  h^ 
added  greatly  to  the  chamcter  which  Methodism  wm 
acquit  mg  m  the  pubHc  estimation.    All  we  now  wT 

LnTr  f  T  '"^""'°"'  o"  -^ »»"»««"'  found- 
ation, and  make  them  eminently  useful,  is  the  simul- 

^neous  and  general  effort  of  the  members  and  Cd. 
andtnSL!"  """^  "'^■^"^^»  '""-"PP"" 

tie!  h^lT  ^'^  "^"J."  ^  P'*^"S  "'"'P"''  'hat  difficul- 
«e  had  ansea  in  Canada,  growing  chiefly  out  of  the 
ste  e  of  things  which  had  been  brought  on  by  the  war 

thien^L  I^'"''  ?"*  '''"'  *•'*  '•'"'"^^'of  'he  bre- 
thien  m  Quebec,  and  some  membera  of  the  church  in 

Montreal  the  British  conference  had  supplied  the^ 
pbceswithm.sionaries;  and  through  the'LlicitauTr" 

had  long  labored  with  great  success,  amid  many  priva- 

faction  of  the  great  majority  of  the  people 

This  state  of  things  had  been  productive  of  much 
rmation  among  the  societies  in  Upper  Canada,  creating 
conflicting    views   and    interests    mutually   injurious 

religion"""'*  """"^  *"  ''"•^''  "">  P"^^  <>'  P"- 
At  this  General  Conference  the  subject  came  up  for 
consideration,  by  numerous  memorials  and  petitions 
from  the  several  circuits  in  Upper  Canada,  proteslin? 
against  the  interference  of  the  British  missionaries,  and 
praying  that  they  might  still  be  supplied  with  the 
mmistry  and  ordinances  of  religion  by  the  American 


1820.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  109 

conference.     After  a  due  consideration  of  the  subject 
the  following  resolutions  were  adopted :~  ' 

"  1.  Resolved,  by  the  delegates  of  the  annual  confer- 
ences m  General  Conference  assembled,  That  it  is  the 
duty  of  the  bishops  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  to 
continue  their  episcopal  charge  over  our  societies  in  the 
Canadas,  all  except  Quebec. 
"  2.  Resolved,  &c.,  That  the  following  address  be  sent 

to  our  brethren  in  Canada : 

«  Dear  Brethren  :— We  have  received  and  read  with 
deep  interest  the  affectionate  memorials  and  addresses 
from  the  several  circuits  in  the  provinces  of  Canada,  in 
which  you  have  expressed  your  strong  attachment  to  us, 
and  your  ardent  desire  for  the  continuance  of  our  ministe- 
rial care  over  you.  We  most  cordially  reciprocate  the 
sentiments  of  brotherly  affection  and  Christian  attachment 
you  have  expressed,  and  pledge  ourselves  to  use  our  best 
endeavors  for  your  spiritual  and  eternal  interest. 

"  We  sincerely  deprecate  those   evils  of  which  yon 
complain,  and  which  have  grown  out  of  the  conduct  of  the 
missionaries  sent  by  the  British  conference  to  labor  in 
Canada.     Confiding,  however,  in  the  integrity  of  that  con 
ference,  and  believing  they  have  been  misled  by  partial 
and  erroneous  statements,  sent  by  interested  persons  in 
Canada,  we  still  hope  that  the  existing  embarrassments 
will  be  removed,  and  that  an  amicable  adjustment  of  this 
unhappy  affair  may  be  brought  about. 

"  We  can  assure  you  that  no  means  which,  in  our 
opinion,  will  be  likely  to  produce  this  desirable  result, 
shall  hn  left  untried. 

"  'I'hat  you  may  be  convinced  that  we  have  neither  been 
inattentive  to  your  interests  nor  umnindful  of  the  respect 
due  to  our  British  brethren,  we  bej  leave  to  lay  before 

3 


110 


A   HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1820. 

you  a  brief  statement  of  what  has  been  done  in  reference 
to  this  subject. 

"  It  is  doubtless  well  known  to  you  that  your  case  was 
fully  laid  before  us  at  our  last  session  in  this  city,  and  im- 
partially considered  in  the  presence  of  brothers  Black  and 
Bennett,  who  were  sent  as  representatives  by  the  British 
conference ;  and  after  hearing  all  that  could  be  said  on 
both  sides  of  the  question,  it  was  resolved  most  expedient, 
among  other  reasons  because  we  understood  it  was  your 
earnest  desire,  to  continue,  as  we  had  done  heretofore,  our 
ministerial  labors  among  you.     That  the  British  confer- 
ence might  be  fully  apprized  of  the  course  we  had  taken 
an  address  was  sent  to  them,  stating  the  reasons  which 
had  directed  our  decision  in  relation  to  Canada,  and  re- 
questing ihat  some  arrangements  might  be  made  for  an 
amicable  adjustment  of  the  existing  difficulties.     To  this 
communication  we  have  received  no  direct  answer. 

"  Similar  communications  have  been  since  sent,  by 
Bishops  M'Kendree  and  George.  The  letter  sent  by 
Bishop  George  contained  a  full  development  of  the  affairs  of 
Canada  ;  but  neither  has  an  answer  to  this  been  received. 
"  As  some  of  the  circuits  have  petitioned  to  have  a  se- 
parate annual  conference  in  Canada,  this  subject  has  been 
considered,  and  it  is  thought  to  be  inexpedient  for  the  pre- 
sent, because,  among  other  reasons,  it  might  prevent  that 
interchange  of  preachers,  so  very  desirable,  and  so  essen- 
tial to  your  prosperity. 

"  After  assuring  you  of  our  unabated  attachment  to  you 
as  a  branch  of  the  Church  over  which  we  are  called,  in 
the  providence  of  God,  to  extend  our  oversight,  and  of  our 
determination,  at  your  earnest  request,  as  well  as  from  a 
consciousness  of  imperious  duty,  to  continue  to  afford  you 
all  the  ministerial  aid  in  our  power,  we  exhort  you  lo 
steadfastness  in  the  faith,  to  unity  and  love,  and  to  perse- 
verance in  all  holy  obedienc«>. 


Ul 


1820.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHLRCH. 

"  3.  Resolved,  &c.,  That  the  following  note  be  inserted 
m  the  Discipline,  under  the  twenty-third  article  of  our 
Church,  via. ;  « As  far  as  it  respects  civil  affairs  we  believe 
It  the  duty  of  Christians,  and  especially   all   Christian 
ministers,  to  be  subject  to  the  supreme  authority  of  the 
country  where  they  may  reside,  and  to  use  all  laudable 
means  to  enjoin  obedience  to  the  powers  that  be:  and 
therefore  it  is  expected  that  all  our  preachers  and  people 
who  may  be  under  the  British  or  any  other  government 
mil  behave  themselves  as  peaceable  and  orderly  subjects  ' 
"4.  Resolved,  by  the  delegates  of  the  annual  confer- 
ences  m  General  Conference  assembled,  That  this  con- 
ference address  the  British  conference  on  the  subject  of  a 
mutual  exchange  of  delegates,  as  representatives  of  the 
one  conterence  to  the  other." 

The  first  resolution  was  afterward  so  modified  as  to 
authorize  the  delegate  who  might  be  sent  to  England 
to  allow  the  whole  of  the  lower  province  to  be  given  -up 
to  the  British  connection;  and  then  the  following  was 
added : —  ° 

"5.  That  the  episcopacy  be  requested,  if  practicable 
to  send  a  delegate  to  the  British  conference  at  their  next 
session  in  July,  or  at  any  time  thereafter,  and  furnish  him 
with  the  requisite  instructions,  and  also  to  draw  on  the 
Book  Concern  for  the  amount  necessary  to  defray  the 
expense.  "^ 

''6  Resolved,  &c.,  That  the  episcopacy,  by  and  with 
the  advice  and  consent  of  the  Genesee  conference,  if  they 
judge  It  expedient,  previous  to  the  sitting  of  the  next 
General  Conference,  shall  have  authority  to  establish  an 
annual  conterence  in  Canada." 

The  Rev.  J.  Emory  was  appointed  delegate,  who,  in 

addition  to  an  adjustment  of  the  existing  difficulties 

,  „.,.,„,_,, „^j^^  lu  convey  to  that  bocly  the 


112 


A   HISTORY  OP  THE 


[1820. 


IJI^. 


affectionate  attachment  of  the  American  conference  to 
their  British  brethren,  and  to  request  a  regular  inter- 
change of  delegates  from  one  connection  to  the  other, 
at  such  times  as  might  be  mutually  satisfactory.  As 
an  assurance,  however,  that  there  existed  a  disposition, 
on  the  part  of  the  missionary  committee  in  London,  to 
remove  all  just  cause  of  complaint,  and  to  prevent  any 
improper  interference  of  their  missionaries  in  the  houses 
and  places  occupied  by  our  preachers  in  Upper  Canada, 
the  following  document  had  been  received  by  Bishop 
M'Kendree  and  submitted  to  the  General  Conference : 

"  Wesleyan  Mission  House^  77  Hatton  Garden^  \ 
London^  25th  February ^  1819.  J 

"  Dear  Sir  : — We  transmit  for  your  information  the 
following  resolutions,  lately  entered  into  by  the  committee 
of  the  General  Wesleyan  Missionary  Society  in  London, 
relative  to  the  British  missionaries  in  Canada,  and  which 
resolutions  have  been  transmitted  to  those  missionaries. 

"  Resolved,  1.  That  it  be  recommended  to  the  brethren 
in  Canada  to  preach  in  a  chapel  which  is  now  jointly  oc- 
cupied by  the  American  brethren,  and,  for  the  sake  of 
peace,  to  pursue  their  labor  separately,  and  not  to  continue 
their  labors  in  any  station  previously  occupied  by  the 
American  brethren,  except  when  the  population  is  so 
large,  or  so  scattered,  that  it  is  evident  a  very  considerable 
part  of  them  must  be  neglected. 

"  Resolved,  2.  That  they  are  to  act  under  the  general 
instniction  of  the  committee  of  June  26,  1818,  viz. : 

"  1 .  That  it  be  communicated  to  the  missionaries  there 
that  the  conference  and  the  committee  never  intended  that 
the  missionaries  sent  out  by  them  should  invade  the  socie- 
ties raised  up  by  the  preachers  appointed  by  the  American 
conference,  and  to  divide  them  ;  but  that  they  should  com- 
municate the  benefits  of  the  Christian  ministry  to  those 


1820.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  II3 

parts  of  the  comitry  where  the  inhabitants  are  destitute  of 
them  and  to  labor  in  those  towns  and  villages  where  Ae 
pop»la«on.s  so  large  that  the  addition  of 'their  l" 

siZ  :?.h!';'eo"^r" '-  '"'-'^^  "^  *«  -"•  -- 

...f  J^/I'T"^  "-esolutions  will,  we  hope,  satisfy  your- 
self and  the  Amencan  conference  that  the  British  corfer- 
ence  and  the  missionaiy  committee  in  London  feel  sorry 

that  any  interference  should  have  ever  taken  place  between 
your  missionaries  and  those  sent  by  the  British  confer" 
ence,  who  most  eamesUy  wish  that  their  missionaries  may 
labor  m  harmony  with  aU  good  men  ^ 

"Praying  that  Christian  kindness  and  good-will  may 

Srlrobtw'  ""  ""•  '*"  '"•'^*  Christian  Xc- 
lion,  your  obedient  servants, 

"Jabez  Bdntino, 
Richard  Watson, 
Jos.  Taylor, 

General  Secretaries." 
Though  the  final  result  of  this  negotiation  could  not 
be  known  untJ  some  time  after  the  adjournment  of  the 
conference,  yet  it  seems  most  proper  to  finish  the  account 
0  It  m  this  place.    And  it  is  recorded  with  the  more 
pleasure,  because  it  evinces  the  disposition  and  determi- 
nation, on  the  part  of  both  the  English  and  American 
conferences,  not  to  aUow  the  collisions  which  had  un- 
happily  occurred  in  Canada  bet^veen  individual  preach- 
ers of  he  two  connections  to  interrupt  their  harmony, 

lad*"  ^'^  "  "*'  '^'"''''' '"''  ''^- 

8  8 


114  A    HISTORY   OF   THE  [1820. 

"Baltimore,  May  27,  1820. 
»'  The  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church  in  the  United  States  of  America,  to  the  British 
conference  of  ministers  and  preachers,  late  in  connec- 
tion with  the  Rev.  John  Wesley. 
"  Reverend  and  Dear   Brethren  : — Grace,  mercy, 
and  peace  be  multiplied  to  you,  and  to  the  Israel  of  God 
under  your  charge,  both  at  home  and  in  foreign  countries. 
With  a  sincere  and  earnest  desire  to  establish  and  pre- 
serve the  most  perfect  harmony  and  peace  with  you,  our 
elder  brethren,  we  have  adopted  measures  for  opening 
such  friendly  intercourse  as  will,  we  devoutly  pray,  tend 
to  the  accomplishment  of  this  desirable  end. 

"  Situated  so  remotely  from  each  other,  and  under  dif- 
ferent forms  of  civil  government,  it  is  believed  that  no 
mode  of  correspondence  will  so  effectually  unite  the  Eu- 
ropean and  American  Methodists  as  an  interchange  of 
delegates  from  our  respective  conferences. 

"  We  are  encouraged  to  hope  that  such  correspondence 
will  be  acceptable  to  you,  from  the  consideration  of  the 
visit  of  Messrs.  Black  and  Bennett,  at  our  last  session, 
and  from  the  friendly  opinion  of  our  dear  brother,  the  Rev. 
William  Black,  who  has  been  with  us  during  our  present 
sitting  in  this  city. 

"  Should  such  a  friendly  intercourse  be  approved,  we 
shall  receive  with  cordiality  your  representative  at  our 
succeeding  sessions,  and,  wiih  the  most  sincere  friendship 
and  affection,  reciprocate  the  visit. 

"  The  prosperity  of  your  missions,  both  at  home  and  in 
foreign  countries,  is  matter  of  praise  and  thanksgiving  to 
the  great  Head  of  the  church  ;  and  our  unceasing  prayer 
is,  that  they  still  may  increase  more  and  more. 

"  The  last  four  years  have  been  distinguished  by  no 
ordinary  success  within  the  field  of  our  labor  :  our  borders 
have  been  greatly  enlarged,  and  the  wilderness  has  budded 


1820.]  METHODIST   IMSOOML   CHURCH.  US 

been  attended  wth  an  ab™,dant  outpouring  of  the  Holy 

inconnee-      ■      f ''";'•""'**'"'«"«''»'' "^  »«  "-mbers  has  exceeded  that 
"      ot  any  former  year. 

«  The  field  of  missionary  labors  is  opening  and  extend- 
.ng  before  us.  and  the  Divine  Providence  appears  to  Z 
prepanng  the  way  for  the  conversion  of  the  Indian  tribes 
on  this  vast  continent. 

"The  bearer,  the  Rev.  John  Emory,  has  been  appointed 
our  delegate  to  your  body,  and  will  be  able  to  give  you  a 
more  particdar  account  of  the  work  mider  our  charge,  and 
especially  of  our  commencement  and  progress  in  tleX 
sionary  cause. 

"Most  earnestly  praying  that  the  Methodists  may  be 
idennfied  m  their  doctrine,  experience,  and  practice  in 
every  part  of  the  world,  and  that  the  Faier  ofTgtr^ay 
pour  upon  you  and  upon  us  the  Spirit  of  grace,  Ld  prZ 
^rve  us  in  the  unity  of  faith,  and  in  the  felWship  and 
peace  of  his  Son  Jesus  Christ,  we  remain,  reverend  and 
dear  brethren,  yours  in  the  gospel  of  our  common  Urd 

oopafcCc?  ""*' '"  "'"^'"^  *"  «""■«  Epis. 

"  Enoch  George,  President, 
Alexander  M'Caine,  Secretary" 

tbr  with  the  resolutions  in  relation  to  the  existing 
difficulties  in  Canada :  existing 

'!nn^lV?T-  ^"P^"^^«"<i^»t«  of  the  Methodist  Epis- 

copal  Church  m  the  United  States  of  America 

"Dear  Brethren :— We  inclose  to   your  care   th^ 

resolutions  passed  by  the  conference  after  the  letters  Tl 

dressed  to  us  by  the  American  General  Conference    and 

a^l^^by  the  Rev.  John  Emory,  had  been  reld'rni 


!■)» 


Ill 


'^'4 


116  A    HISTORY   OF   THE  [1820. 

"  In  addition  to  the  expression  of  our  sentiments  con- 
tained in  those  resolutions,  on  the  renewal  of  intercourse 
between  the  two  conferences,  we  are  directed  to  request 
you  to  convey  to  your  next  General  Conference  our  warm- 
est thanks  for  those  declarations  of  unabated  brotherly 
affection  toward  us  and  the  connection  which  your  letters 
contain,  and  for  the  appointment  of  Mr.  Emory  as  youi 
representative. 

"  In  him  we  have  recognized  the  pmity  of  your  doc- 
trine and  the  fervor  and  simplicity  of  your  piety.'  We 
have  received  him,  not  as  a  stranger,  but  as  a  'brother 
beloved.'  Our  hearts  are  as  his  heart ;  and  it  will  be  re- 
membered as  one  of  the  most  pleasing  circumstances  con- 
nected with  the  conference  held  in  tliis  town,  that  our 
personal  intercourse  with  you  was  here  restored,  and  that 
this  '  work  of  love'  was  committed  to  so  able  and  excel- 
lent a  brother,  whose  public  ministrations  and  addresses  in 
our  conference  have  been  equally  gratifying  and  instructive 
to  us  and  to  our  people. 

"  From  the  statements  made  by  Mr.  Emory  as  to  the 
progress  of  the  work  of  God  in  the  United  States,  we  have 
received  the  greatest  satisfaction.  We  offered  our  united 
thanksgivings  to  God  that  the  doctrines  of  primitive  Me- 
thodism, the  preaching  of  which  God  has  so  eminently 
owned  in  the  salvation  of  men  and  the  edification  of  be- 
lievers, are  not  only  continued  among  you  in  their  purity, 
but  have  been  so  widely  extended  by  your  great  and  per- 
severing efforts ;  and  that  the  same  holy  disciplinf^  in  g.11 
its  essential  parts,  continues,  wherever  you  form  sockties, 
to  guard  and  confirm  the  work  which  God  has  u^ade  to 
prosper  in  your  hands. 

"  For  the  state  of  our  affairs  in  Great  Britain  and  Ire- 
land, and  in  our  missionary  stations,  we  refer  you  to  Mr. 
Emorj.  «. \i  as  health  would  allow,  has  attended  our  sit- 
tings, aii;^  :-.■}  those  publications  with  which,  before  his  de- 


inces  con- 


i  SOCK  pities, 


1820.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  117 

parture,  we  shall  be  happy  to  furnish  him,  to  be  laid  before 
you. 

«  You  will  .  ee  that  we  have  had  to  rejoice  with  you  in 
the  great  extension  of  the  work  of  God  into  the  various 
parts  of  the  British  empire,  and  that  the  institutions  of 
Methodism,  which  we  have  proved  to  be  so  well  adapted 
to  promote  and  to  preserve  true  religion,  are  known  and 
valued  m  evei^  quarter  of  the  globe.  May  we,  with  you, 
be  the  Ignored  instruments  of  turning  the  disobedient  to 
the  wisuom  of  the  just  in  every  place,  and  of  hastening 
tne  universal  kingdom  of  our  Lord. 

"  The  resolutions  on  the  disputes  in  the  Caaadas  were 
adopted  after  a  calm  and  patient  consideration  of  the  case 
in  which  we  were  greatly  assisted  by  Mr.  Emory.  We 
hope  that  they  will  lead  to  a  full  adjustment  of  those  dis- 
putes, and  that  the  affection  which  exists  between  the  two 
connections  generally  will  extend  itself  to  the  brethren  and 
societies  m  the  Canadas.  This  is  the  disposition  which 
we  shall  earnestly  inculcate  upon  those  under  our  care  in 
those  provmces,  and  we  have  full  confidence  that  the  same 
care  wiU  be  taken  by  you  to  extinguish  every  feeling  con- 

isir.^"^^"^ '"''' ""'-  -^^-  ^-  ^-«  --^ 

"  With  earnest  prayers  for  you,  dear  and  honored  bre- 
hren,  m  particular,  on  whom  devolve  the  general  direc- 
lon  of  the   affairs  of  the  great  body   of  Methodists   in 
the   western  world,   and   labors  so  severe,  but  so  dori- 
ous,-that  you  may  be  filled  with  wisdom  for  counsel 
a-,  strength  to  fulfil  the  duties  of  your  great  office  ;-and 
also  praymg  that  all  your  churches  may  have  res    and 
wa  kmg  m  the  fear  of  the  Lord,  and  in  the  comforts  of  the 
Holy  Ghost,  be  abundantly  multiplied,  we  are,  dear  bre- 
thren, yours  most  affectionately  in  Christ  Jesus, 

"Jabez  Bvntino,  President, 

„  T .  ,    ,  George  Marsden,  Secretary, 

■Liverpool,  August,  1820."  o 


118 


A   HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1820 

"  Resolutions  of  the  British  Conference  op^  Anierican  Affairs. 
"  1 .  That  the  conference  embraces  wiiu  pleasure  this 
opportunity  of  recognizing  that  principle  which,  it  is  hoped, 
will  be  permanently  maintained, — that  the  Wesleyan  Me- 
thodists are  one  in  every  part  of  the  world. 

"  2.  That  the  British  conference  has  frequently  rejoiced 
in  the  very  favorable  account  which  they  have  received, 
year  alter  year,  of  t\e  great  and  glorious  work  which  God 
is  graciously  carrying  on  in  the  United  States  of  America ; 
but  that  it  is  wi^h  peculiar  pleasure  that  they  receive  a 
representative  from  the  General  Conference  in  America. 
The  statement  given  by  our  beloved  brother,  Mr.  Emory, 
of  the  present  state  of  Methodism  in  America,  has  been 
received  with  much  joy;  and  the  conference  also  expresses 
its  high  satisfaction,  not  only  in  the  declaration,  but  in  the 
proof,  of  the  love  of  our  American  brethren  in  fully  open- 
ing the  way  for  a  brotherly  intercourse  between  the  Euro- 
pean and  the  American  societies. 

'*  3.  The  conference  particularly  rejoices  in  the  zeal  which 
is  manifested  by  our  American  brethren  in  carrying  the 
gospel  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  to  the  Indian  tribes,  and 
in  the  success  which  God  has  already  given  to  their  la- 
bors  in  that  natural  and  moral  wilderness :  and  hopes  that 
the  time  is  drawing  near  when  the  aborigines  of  that  vast 
continent  shall  become  the  mild  and  gentle  followers  oi" 
our  gracious  Redeemer. 

"  4.  That  it  is  the  earnest  wish  of  this  conference  that 
the  kind  and  friendly  intercourse  which  is  now  opened 
between  the  British  and  the  American  conference  should 
be  continued :  and  that,  prior  to  the  time  of  holding  the 
next  General  Conference  in  America,  the  British  confer- 
ence will  appoint  one  or  more  of  their  body  to  visit  our 
brethren  in  America,  to  be  present  at  their  General  Con- 
ference. 

"  5.  That  a  letter  shall  be  sent  to  the  American  brethren. 
4 


119 


1820.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH. 

containing  these  resolutions,  and  strongly  expressing  our 
high  approbation  of  the  selection  of  our  highly  esteemed 
brother,  Mr.  Emory,  as  their  representative  to  our  confer- 
ence, and  of  our  earnest  desire  and  prayer  that,  in  the  spirit 
of  Chnstian  love,  we  may  ever  be  one  in  Christ  Jesus. 

"6.  That  there  shall  be  a  regular  exchange  of  Mi- 
nutes, magazines,  missionary  reports  and  notices,  and  all 
new  original  works,  published  by  ,the  European  and  Ame- 
rican Methodists,  from  their  respective  book  rooms. 

"  On  the  subject  of  the  unpleasant  circumstances  which 
k  e  occurred  in  the  Canadas  between  the  American 
preachers  and  our  missionaries,  referred  to  the  conference 
by  the  missionary  committee  in  London,  with  their  opinion 
that  Upper  Canada  shall  be  left  in  possession  of  the  Ame- 
rican brethren,  and  that  our  missionary  exertions  shall  be 
confined  to  the  lower  province,  this  committee  recommend 
to  the  conference  the  adoption  of  the  following  principles 
and  arrangements : — 

"  I.  That,  as  the  American  Methodists  and  ourselves 
are  but  one  body,  it  would  be  inconsistent  with  our  unity 
and  dangerous  to  that  affectioxi  which  ought  to  charar'  -- 
ize  us  in  every  place,  to  have  different  societies  and  con- 
gregations in  the  same  towns  and  villages,  or  «>  allow  of 
any  intrusion  on  either  side  into  each  other's  labors. 

"2.  That  this  principle  shall  be  the  rule  by  which  the 
disputes  now  existing  in  the  Canadas,  between  our  mis- 
sionaries, shall  be  terminated. 

"  3.  That  the  simplest  and  most  effectual  manner  of 
carrying  this  rule  into  effect  appears  to  us  to  be,  to  accede 
t^  the  suggestion  of  the  American  conference,  that  the 
American  brethren  shall  have  the  occupation  of  Upper- 
Canada,  and  the  British  missionaries  that  of  Lower  Ca- 
nada, allowing  sufficient  time  for  carrying  this  arrange- 
ment mto  effect,  with  all  possible  tenderness  to  existinir 

nroiii/ii'^Aa    __j /$•    .1  •    .  * 


129 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1820. 


arrangement  to  be  completed  within  a  period  to  be  fixed 
as  early  as  possible  by  the  missionary  committee.  But 
should  msuperable  difficulties  occur  in  the  attempt  to  exe- 
cute  this  plan,  (which,  however,  we  do  not  anticipate,) 
either  party  shall  be  at  liberty  to  propose  any  other  mode 
of  accommodation  which  shall  assume  as  its  basis  the 
great  principle  laid  down  in  the  first  of  these  resolutions, 
and  which  we  are  of  opinion  should  be  held  most  sacred 
in  every  part  of  the  world 

"  4.  That  if  hereafter  it  shall  appear  to  any  of  our  bre- 
thren there,  either  British  missionaries  or  American 
preachers,  that  anyplace  on  either  side  the  boundary  line, 
now  mentioned,  needs  religious  help,  and  presents  a  fa- 
vorable opportunity  for  usefulness,  the  case  shall  be 
referred  by  the  Canada  district  meeting  to  the  General 
Conference,  or  by  that  body  to  the  Canada  district ;  and 
if  either  shall  formally  decline  to  supply  the  place  on  their 
own  side  the  boundary,  then  the  other  shall  be  at  liberty 
to  supply  the  said  place,  without  being  deemed  to  have 
violated  the  terms  of  this  friendly  compact. 

"  5.  And  it  shall  be  expliciily  understood  in  this  ar- 
rangement,  that  each  party  shall  be  bound  to  supply  with 
preachers  all  those  stations  and  their  dependencies  which 
shall  be  relinquished  by  each  of  the  connections,  that  no 
place  on  either  side  shall  sustain  any  loss  of  the  ordinances 
of  religion  in  consequence  of  this  arrangement. 

"  5.  That  the  missionary  committee  be  directed  to  ad- 
dress a  letter  to  the  private  and  official  members,  trustees, 
&c.,  under  the  care  of  our  missionaries  in  Upper  Canada,' 
informing  them  of  the  judgment  of  the  conference,  and 
afTectionately  and  earnestly  advising  them  to  put  them- 
selves and  their  chapels  under  the  pastoral  care  of  the 
American  preachers,  with  the  suggestion  of  such  consider- 
ations, to  incline  them  to  it,  as  the  committee  may  judge 
most  proper. 


1820.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  121 

«  7.  That  the  bishops  of  tlie  American  connection  shall 
afreet  a  similar  letter  to  the  private  and  official  members 
trustees,  <fec.,  under  the  care  of  the  American  preachers  in 
the  province  of  Lower  Canada,  requesting  them  to  put 
themselves  and  their  chapels  under  the  care  of  the  British 
missionaries;" 

The  instructions  to  the  missionaries,  sent  out  in  pur- 
suance of  the  above  arrangement,  are  so  replete  with 
Christian  urbanity  and  kindness,  and  so  fully  exem- 
j3hfy  the  spirit  by  which  all  Christian  associations  should 
be  actuated  in  their  intercourse  with  each  other,  that  I 
am  persuaded  the  reader  wiU  be  gratified  with  their  pe- 
rusal.    They  are  as  follows  : 

"  Coipy  of  a  letter  of  instructions  from  the  Missionary  Com- 

mittee  m  London,  to  the  Rev.  Messrs.  R.  Williams  and 

the  other  British  missionaries  in  the  provinces  of  Canada 

"  Dear  Brother  r-Herewith  we  transmit  you  a  copy 

of  resolutions,  passed  at  our  late  conference,  on  the  subject 

of  the  disputes  which  have  unhappily  existed  between  our 

American  brethren  and  us,  relative  to  our  missions  in 

Canada. 

"  The  preceding  resolutions  are  general,  and  refer  to 
the  renewal  of  the  intercourse,  by  personal  deputation, 
between  the  American  and  British  conferences,  by  the 
visit  of  Mr.  Emory.  We  have  given  you  the  resolutions 
in  full,  that  you  may  see  that  we  have  recognized  the  prin- 
ciple that  the  Methodist  body  is  one  throughout  the  worid, 
and  that  therefore  its  members  are  bound  to  cordial  affec- 
tion and  brotherly  union. 

"  The  resolutions  of  the  committee,  passed  some  time 
ago,  and  forwarded  for  your  guidance,  prohibiting  any  in- 
terference with  the  work  of  the  American  brethren,  would 
show  you  that  the  existence  of  collisions  between  us  and 
tuem  gave  us  serious  concern,  and  that  tho  committee  were 

3 


122 


A    HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1820 


anxious  to  remove,  as  far  as  they,  at  that  time,  were  ac- 
quainted with  the  circumstances,  every  occasion  of  disputfe. 
"  Certainly  the  case  of  Montreal  chapel  was  one  which 
we  could  never  justify  to  our  minds,  and  the  committee 
have  in  many  instances  had  but  a  partial  knowledge  of  the 
re"!  religious  wants  of  the  upper  province,  and  of  its  means 
of  supply.  The  only  reason  we  could  have  for  increasing 
the  number  of  missionaries  in  that  province  was,  the  pre- 
sumption of  a  strong  necessity,  arising  out  of  the  destitute 
c  adition  of  the  inhabitants,  the  total  want,  or  too  great  dis- 
nce  of  ministers. 

"  On  no  other  ground  could  we  apply  money  raised  for 
missionary  purposes  for  the  supply  of  preachers  to  Upper 
Canada.  The  information  we  have  had  for  two  years  past 
has  all  served  to  show  that  the  number  of  preachers  em- 
ployed there  by  the  American  brethren  was  greater  than 
we  had  at  first  supposed,  and  was  constantly  increasing. 

"  To  us,  therefore,  it  now  appears,  that  though  there 
may  be  places  in  that  province  which  are  not  visited,  they 
are  within  the  range,  or  constantly  coming  within  the 
range,  of  the  extended  American  itinerancy ;  and  that  Up- 
per Canada  does  not  present  to  our  efforts  a  ground  so 
fully  and  decidedly  missionary  as  the  lower  province, 
where  much  less  help  exists,  and  a  great  part  of  the  popu- 
lation is  involved  in  popish  superstition. 

"  We  know  that  political  reasons  exist  in  many  minds 
for  supplying  even  Upper  Canada,  as  far  as  possible,  with 
British  missionaries  ;  and  however  natural  this  feeling 
may  be  to  Englishmen,  and  even  praiseworthy,  when  not 
carried  too  far,  it  will  be  obvious  to  you  that  this  is  a 
ground  on  which,  as  a  missionary  society,  and  especially 
as  a  society  under  the  direction  of  a  committee  which  re- 
cognizes as  brethren,  and  one  with  itself,  the  American 
Methodists,  we  cannot  act. 

1,     Km'^SlllfiA     (l«i   n    miaainnni^r  anrti^t-^     ...»   .__..>.a    1 it 

-5 .  —  _  ,„,^,i„,^   rjwicij,  nrc  ^;aiiuui  i»y  rt 

o 


1820.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  123 

down  as  a  principle  that  those  whose  object  is  to  convert 
the  world  shall  be  prevented  from  seeking  and  saving  souls 
under  a  foreign  government,  for  we  do  not  thus  reflate 
our  own  efforts. 

"2.  To  act  on  this  principle  would  be  to  cast  an  odium 
upon  our  American  brethren,  as  though  they  did  not  con- 
duct  themselves  peaceably  under  the  British  government, 
which  is,  we  believe,  contrary  to  the  fact. 

"  3.  That  if  any  particular  exceptions  to  this  Christian  and 
submissive  conduct  were,  on  their  part,  to  occur,  we  have 
not  the  least  right  to  interfere,  unless,  indeed,  the  Ameri- 
can  conference  obviously  neglected  to  enforce  upon  the 
offending  parties  its  own  discipline.  Upon  any  poiuical 
feeling  which  may  exist,  either  in  your  minds  or  in  the 
minds  of  a  party  in  any  place,  we  cannot  therefore  pro- 
ceed. Our  objects  are  purely  spiritual,  and  our  American 
brethren  and  ourselves  are  one  body  of  Christians,  sprung 
from  a  common  stock,  holding  the  same  doctrines,  enforc- 
ing the  same  discipline,  and  striving  in  common  to  spread 
the  light  of  true  religion  through  the  world. 

"  In  conformity  with  these  views,  we  have  long  thought 

It  a  reproach,  and  doing  more  injury,  by  disturbing  the 

harmony  of  the  two  connections,  than  could  be  counterba- 

lanced  by  any  local  good,  that  the  same  city  or  town 

should  see  two  congregations,  and  two  societies,  and  two 

preachers,  professing  the  same  form  of  Christianity,  and 

yet  thus  proclaiming  themselves  rivals  to  each  other,  and 

in  some  instances,  invading  each  other's  societies  and 

chapels,  and  thus  producing  party  feelings.     The  purposes 

of  each,  we  are  ready  to  allow,  have  been  good,  though 

mistaken ;  and  we  rather  blame  ourselves  for  not  having 

obtained  more  accurate  information  on  some  particulars, 

than  intimate  any  dissatisfaction  with  the  missionaries  in 

the  Canadas,  with  whose  zeal  and  labors  we  have  so  much 

reason  to  be  satisfied. 

3 


^^^  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1820. 

"  A  part  of  the  evil  has  also  arisen  from  the  want  of 
personal  communication,  by  deputation,  between  the  two 
conferences,  now  happily  established.     These  considera- 
tions had  iong  and  seriously  occupied  our  minds  before 
the  arrival  of  Mr.  Emory,  charged  by  the  General  Ameri- 
can Conference  to  bring  these  matters  under  our  consider- 
ation.    The  committee,  previous  to  the  conference,  went 
with  him  fully  into  the  discussion  of  the  disputes  in  the 
Canadas,  and  recommended  those  principles  of  adjustment 
which  the  conference,  after  they  had  been  referred  to  a 
special  committee  during  the  time  of  its  sitting,  adopted, 
and  which  we  now  transmit  to  all  the  brethren  in  the  Ca- 
nada station. 

"  You  will  consider  these  resolutions  as  the  fruit  of  a 
very  ample  inquiry,  and  of  serious  dehberation. 

"  None  of  the  principles  here  adopted  by  us  do  indeed  go 
farther  than  to  prevent  interference  with  each  other's  la- 
bors among  the  American  and  British  missionaries,  and 
the  setting  up  of  *  altar  against  altar'  in  the  same  city,  town, 
or  village;  but,  knowing  that  circumstances  of  irritation 
exist,  and  that  too  near  a  proximity  might,  through  the  in- 
firmity of  human  nature,  lead  to  a  violation  of  that  union 
which  the  conference  has  deemed  a  matter  of  paramount 
importance  to  maintain,  we  have  thought  it  best  to  adopt  a 
geographical  division  of  the  labor  of  each,  and  that  the 
upper  province  should  be  left  to  the  American  brethren 
and  the  lower  to  you.     The  reasons  for  this  are, 

"  1.  That  the  upper  province  is  so  adequately  supplied 
by  the  American  conference  as  not  to  present  that  pressing 
case  of  necessity  which  will  justify  our  expending  our 
funds  upon  it. 

"  2.  That  Mr.  Emory  has  engaged  that  its  full  supply  by 
Anierican  preachers  shall  be,  as  far  as  possible,  attended  to. 

"  3.  That  this  measure  at  once  terminates  the  dispute 

as  to  Mnntroo] 

3 


1820.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


125 


"  4.  That  it  will  prevent  collision  without  sacrifice  of 
public  good. 

"5.  That  Lower  Canada  demands  our  efforts  rather 
than  Upper,  as  being  more  destitute,  and  the  labors  of  the 
brethren  there  being  more  truly  missionary. 

"  A  transfer  of  societies  and  places  of  preaching  will 
of  course  follow.  Our  societies  in  Upper  Canada  are  to 
be  put  under  the  care  of  the  American  brethren ;  theirs  in 
the  lower  province  under  yours. 

"  It  is  clear  that  this,  under  all  circumstances,  will  re- 
quire prudent  and  wise  management,  and  we  depend  upon 
you  to  carry  the  arrangement  into  effect  in  the  same  spirit 
of  kindness  and  temper  in  which  the  question  has  been 
determined  by  the  conference  and  Mr.  Emory. 

"  Feel  that  you  are  one  with  your  American  brethren, 
embarked  in  the  same  great  cause,  and  eminently  of  the 
same  religious  family,  and  the  little  difficulties  of  arrange- 
ment will  be  easily  surmounted ;  and  if  any  warm  spirits 
(which  is  probable)  rise  up  to  trouble  you,  remember  that 
you  are  to  act  upon  the  great  principle  sanctioned  by  the 
conference,  and  not  upon  local  prejudices.  The  same  ad- 
vices Mr.  Emory  has  pledged  himself  shall  be  given  to 
the  American  preachers,  and  you  will  each  endeavor  to 
transfer  the  same  spirit  into  the  societies  respectively. 
When  the  preachers  recognize  each  other  as  brethren,  the 
people  will  naturally  fall  under  the  influence  of  the  same 
feeling. 

"  We  have  appointed  our  respected  brethren,  Messrs. 
Williams  and  Hick,  who  are  to  choose  as  an  associate  a 
third  preacher  in  full  connection,  to  meet  an  equal  number 
of  preachers  to  be  appointed  by  the  American  bishop,  who 
shall  agree  upon  the  time  in  which  the  chapels  and  socie- 
ties shall  be  mutually  transferred,  and  the  arrangements 
of  the  conference  be  carried  into  effect.  The  place  of 
the  meeting  ihey  are  to  fix  for  their  mutual  convenience, 

8 


126  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1820, 

but  the  meeting  is  to  be  held  as  early  as  possible  after  the 
receipt  of  the  instructions  of  the  committee,  that  the  report 
of  the  final  adjustment  of  the  affair  may  appear  in  your 
next  district  minutes. 

"  We  conclude  with  our  best  wishes  for  your  personal 
happiness  and  usefulness.  May  you  ever  go  forth  in  the 
*  fulness  of  the  blessing  of  the  gospel  of  peace,'  and  be 
made  the  honored  instruments  of  winning  many  souls  to 
the  knowledge  and  obedience  of  the  faith  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ. 

"  We  are,  dear  brother,  yours  very  affectionately, 

"Jos.  Taylor, 
Richard  Watson, 

Secretaries. 
«  Wesleyan  Mission  House,  77  Hatton  \ 
Garden,  23d  August,  1820."  J 

As  it  v/as  agreed  that  our  bishops  should  send  similar 
instructions  to  those  brethren  to  whom  the  carrying  the 
above  resolutions  into  practical  effect  should  be  com- 
mitted, the  following  communication  was  sent  to  the 
Rev.  William  Case : — 

"  Alexandria,  (D.  C.,)  Oct.  16,  1820. 
"  Dear  Brother  : — I  transmit  you  herewith  a  copy  of 
the  resolutions  of  the  late  British  conference,  received 
through  brother  Emory,  our  representative  to  that  body,  on 
the  subjects  embraced  in  his  mission  ;  and  also  of  the  in- 
structions of  the  missionary  committee  in  London  to  the 
Rev.  Messrs.  R.  Williams  and  the  other  British  missiona- 
ries in  the  provinces  of  Canada,  predicated  on  those  reso- 
lutions. 

"  From  these  documents  you  will  perceive  that  the  desire 
of  our  General  Conference,  both  for  the  establishment  of  a 
personal  intercourse  by  deputation  between  the  two  con- 
nections, and  for  the  amicable  adjustment  of  the  afflicting 


1S20.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  127 

differences  in  the  Canadas,  has  been  happily  accomplished. 
Indeed  it  appears,  not  only  from  those  papers,  but  from 
the  commmiications  of  our  representative,  that  this  desire 
was  met,  both  by  the  British  conference  and  the  missionary 
committee,  with  a  promptness  and  brotherly  affection 
which  we  should  take  equal  pleasure  in  acknowledging 
and  reciprocating. 

"This  it  now  devolves  upon  me  (my  colleagues  being 
necessarily  at  a  great  distance,  in  the  discharge  of  their 
official  duties  in  the  south  and  west)  to  enjoin  it  upon  you 
to  do ;  and  to  promote  the  same  spirit  of  kindness  toward 
our  British  brethren,  among  all  the  preachers,  traveling 
and  local,  and  all  the  official  and  private  members  within 
your  district,  to  the  utmost  extent  of  your  power. 

"To  remove  the  prejudices  and  allay  the  unpleasant 
excitements  existing  will,  no  doubt,  require  much  prudent 
care.  But  in  this  '  labor  of  love'  I  expect  in  you  a  ready 
mmd.  Let  the  difficulties  you  may  meet  with  only  stimu- 
late you  to  the  exertion  of  your  best  and  most  persevering 
efforts  in  this  behalf.  Remember,  «  Blessed  are  the  peace- 
makers.' *  Seek  peace,  then,  and  ensue  it.'  If  it  even 
seem  to  flee  from  you,  follow  it :  ♦  Looking  diligently,  lest 
any  man  fpii  of  the  grace  of  God  ;  lest  any  root  of  bitter- 
ness, springing  up,  trouble  you,  and  thereby  many  be 
defiL 

"  In  ci  ent  state  of  things,  (your  acquaintance  with 

which  rei  j^tail  unnecessary,)  we  have  thought  it  best 

to  agree  to  a  division  of  our  field  of  labors  in  the  Canadas 
by  the  provincial  line.  In  the  expediency  of  this  measure 
you  will  see  that  the  missionary  committee  in  London  and 
the  British  conference  have  concurred ;  so  that  our  labors 
there  are  to  be  confined,  in  future,  to  the  upper  province, 
and  those  of  the  British  missionaries  to  the  lower. 

"  A  transfer  of  societies  and  places  of  preaching  will  of 
^^^  uwictico  411  juiuwuf  v^anada  are  lo  Do 


128 


A    HIHTORY  OF    TUB 


ri820. 


'r; 


put  under  iho  earn  of  o«r  Brit:  ih  lirothron,  and  theirs,  in 
the  upper  provin(Mi,  un«ior  ourn. 

"  For  the  execution  of  these  nrran«oniont«  I  have  ap- 
pointed hrother  Ryan  and  yourscdf,  with  authority  to  aswo- 
ciate  with  you  a  third  preacher  in  full  connection,  to  meet 
the  Rev.  MesHrs,  R.  Williams  and  Hick,  appointed  hy  the 
ininHionary  committ^je,  and  such  other  preacher  as  they 
may  associate  witfi  them.     The  time  and  place  of  meet- 
ing you  will  agree  on  with  them,  for  your  mutual  conve- 
nience.    'J'he  missionary  committee  have  instructed  their 
agents  that  the  meeting  is  to  be  hold  as  oarly  as  possible 
after  the  receipt  of  the  instructions  of  the  committee,  tliat 
the  report  of  the  fiiuil  adjustment  of  the  affair  may  appear 
in  the  next  district  minutes.     In  this  we  concur.     You 
will,  therefore,  imnuidiately  on  the  reception  of  these  in- 
ht ructions,  in  conjunction  with  brother  Ryan  and  your  as- 
sociate, correspond  with  the  Rev.  Messrs.  Williams  and 
Hick  and  their  associate  on  the  subject ;  and  fail  not  to 
use  every  means  in  your  power  for  the  prompt  execution 
of  the  arrangements  in  the  best  faith,  and  in  the  most  har- 
monious and  affectionate  manner.     In  the  language  of  the 
missionary  committee  we  cordially  unite  to  say,  «  Feel  that 
you  are  one  with  your'  British  ♦  brethren,  embarked  in  the 
same  great  cause,  and  eminently  of  the  same  religious 
family,  and  the  little  difficulties  of  arrangement  will  be 
easily  surmounted;  and  if  any  warm  spirits  rise  up  to 
trouble  you,  remember  that  you  are  to  act  on  the  great 
principles  now  sanctioned  and  avowed  by  the  two  connec- 
tions, and  not  upon  local  prejudices.'     If  each  endeavor  to 
transfuse  this  spirit  into  the  societies  respectively,  the 
people  will  n  uch  more  easily  be  brought  under  the  influ- 
ence of  the  same  feeling,  when  it  shall  be  found  to  pos- 
sess and  actuate  the  preachers.     In  any  event,  let  there 
be  no  deficiency  on  your  part  in  spirit,  word,  or  deed.    We 

commit  to  you  a  sacred  work,  which  you  are  bound  to 
3 


1880.)  METHOBWT  tPWVOVA,.    CHURCH.  13» 

pnrforn,,  not  only  a,  to  th,,  matter,  but  in  the  manner  in 
....  temper,  m  which, a. thoao  i„«r.,e,i™.,  „,„  i„„„",^  ^ 
» ,0M-  you,  we  our,o  ve.  would  perform  it,  cm.Id  we  1^ 
prc.e„t.  Attend  «rictly  ,o  thi,,  that  wo  may  have  joy 
and  conflation  ,„  y„„,  W„,  ,h„  h,„,,,  „f  .^^  ^  ^ 

regular  and  fall  copie,  of  all  your  correspondence  and 
procoeduig.  m  this  business. 
"  Should  it  be  found  practicable  to  complete  the  arranse- 

you  wdl  of  course  take  care  to  provide  for  the  supply  of 
those  crcuns,  societies,  and  place,  o ;  preachin/in  the 
upper  province  which  may  be  transferred  ,„  „,  by  „„ 
British  brethren,  as  they  are  to  provide  for  those  which 
are  to  be  simultaneously  transferred  to  them  in  the  lower 
province.  You  will  also  take  care,  from  time  to  time,  to 
extend  supplies  to  any  remaining  places  which  may  be 
found  destitute  m  the  upper  province,  as  far  as  possible. 

1  here  are  several  circuits,  I  believe,  in  Lower  Ca- 
jada,  attached  to  the  New-York  and  New-England  con- 
fcrences.  These  are  included  in  the  arrangement.  You 
w.  therefore  forward  a  copy  of  these  instru'ctions  u,  ..2 
01  the  presiding  elders  within  whose  districts  those  cir- 
cults  are  embraced,  and  request  them  to  be  prepared  to 
corporate  with  yon  in  the  Hnal  execution  of  the  business, 
and  to  report  the  same  at  their  ensuing  annual  conferences 
respectively. 

"The  missionary  committee  in  London  having  kindlv 

.mished  us  with  a  copy  of  .heir  instructions,  te  shall 

.  nsmi,  a  copy  of  these  I  now  send  you  to  them.     You 

mlKdso  show  them,  when  you  meet,  to  the  Rev.  Messrs 

WiUiams  and  Hick  and  their  associate,  and,  if  they  de";^' 

.  S  1  .  "  '"■'y'  """  y™  ■""•>  S»  »"  in  *«  good  work 
as  we  have  happily  begun,  with  that  frankness  Ld  ki^d. 
"«s  wmcii  become  brethren  i.,  such  a  cause. 

»  t 


130 


A    HISTORY   OP   THE 


(t 


k 


[1820. 

By  the  sixth  resolution  of  the  British  conference  on 
the  Canadian  business,  it  is  provided  that  the  missionary 
committee  be  directed  to  address  a  letter  to  the  private 
and  official  members,  trustees,  &c.,  under  the  care  of  the 
missionaries  in  Upper  Canada,  informing  them  of  the 
judgment  of  the  conference,  and  affectionately  and  ear- 
nestly advising  them  to  put  themselves  and  their  chapels 
under  the  pastoral  care  of  the  American  preachers,  with 
the  suggestion  of  such  considerations  to  incline  them  to  it 
as  the  committee  may  judge  most  proper.  And  by  the 
seventh  resolution  it  is  provided  that  we  shall  address  a 
similar  letter  to  the  private  and  official  members,  trustees, 
&c.,  under  our  care.  I  accordingly  inclose  a  letter  which 
you  will  use  for  this  purpose,  after  you  have  met  with 
Messrs.  Williams  and  Hick,  &c.,  and  agreed  with  them 
on  the  time  of  making  the  transfer  of  the  societies,  cha- 
pels, &c.,  but  not  to  be  used  before.  At  the  same  time, 
after  this  meeting  and  agreement,  you  will  also  forward  a 
copy  of  this  letter  to  each  of  the  presiding  elders  in  the 
New-York  and  New-England  conferences  whose  districts 
embrace  circuits  in  Lower  Canada,  to  be  used  by  them. 

"Confiding  in  your  faithful  discharge  of  the  several 
trusts  committed  to  you,  I  commend  you  to  the  Lord,  and 
remain,  dear  brother,  yours  in  love. 

"  Wm.  M'Kendree." 

The  following  was  also  addressed  to  the  brethren 
therein  mentioned  in  Lower  Canada : — 

"  To  the  private  and  official  members,  trustees,  &c.,  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  Lower  Canada. 
"Verv  Dear  Brethren: — You  are  aware  that,  for 
several  years  past,  very  unpleasant  collisions  have  occurred 
in  various  parts  both  of  the  upper  and  lower  provinces,  be- 
tween the  British  missionaries  and  some  of  our  brethren. 
X  Ills  iiaS  uCQji  a  source  Oi  great  aiaiiction  to  us,  and  has 


1820.]  METHODIST    EMSCOPAl    CHBRCH.  I31 

led  to  the  adoption  of  various  and  succesaive  measures  for 
the  correction  of  the  evil. 

"Our  late  General  Conference,  being  earnestly  desirous 
of  restoring  the  amicable  relations  of  the  two  connection 
authorized  the  deputation  of  a  representative  to  the  British 
conference  for  this  purpose.     One  was  accordingly  sen. 
And  after  a  deliberate  investigation,  it  has  been  mutually 
though,  best,  for  the  sake  of  peace  and  love,  urder  all  the 
creumstances  of  the  ease,  ,o  divide  onr  W^rs  in  .he  Ca! 
nadas  m  such  a  manner  as  to  guard  effectually  agains.  all 
collisions  m  future.  /    s     loi  an 

-With  this  view,  it  has  been  agreed  that  our  British 
orethren  shall  supply  the  lower  province  and  our  preaches 
the  upper;  yet  so  that  no  circuits  or  societies  on  eithe 
sule  shall  be  left  destitute  by  the  other.     This  has  been 
sacredly  attended  to,  and  mutual  pledges  for  the  perform- 
ance  of  it  have  been  passed.     It  now  becomes  our  duty 
therefore  to  mform  you  of  this  agreement,  and  to  advise 
you,  m  the  most  affectionate  and  earnest  manner,  to  put 
yourselves  and  your  chapels  under  the  care  of  our  British 
brethren  as  their  societies  and  chapels  in  the  upper  pro- 
vince will  be  put  under  ours. 

"This  communication  to  you,  we  confess,  is  not  made 
without  pain ;  not  from  any  want  of  affection  for  our 
British  brethren,  but  from  the  recollection  of  those  tender 
and  endearmg  ties  which  have  bound  us  to  you.  But  a 
necessity  is  laid  upon  us.  It  is  a  peace-offering.  No 
other  consideration  could  have  induced  us  to  consent  to 
he  measure.  Forgive,  therefore,  our  seeming  to  give  you 
up.  We  do  not  give  you  up  in  heart,  in  affection,  in  kind 
regards,  m  prayers. 

"  The  British  and  American  connections  have  now  mutu- 

ZnTfrr"''  "'^  "'''''  ''  ^"^  '^'^^y  «^  Christians, 
P rung  from  a  common  stock,  holding  the  same  doctrines. 

ofthe  same  religious  family,  and  striving  in  common  to 

3 


132  A  »;:««ToiiY  or  thr  [1820 

Bppn<l  tho  lijrlit  oi'  truo  rtilij^ion  through  tlio  world ;  and 
thoy  \m\v  iifi;rov(\  to  kin\}  up  a  rd'rular  intercourst)  by  de- 
putiition,  in  I'uturc,  for  tho  maintenance  of  this  brotherly 
union. 

•*  Lot  any  pant  dilferoncoH,  therefore,  be  forgotten.  Lot 
them  bo  buried  for  over.  Confirm  your  love  toward  our 
Jkitiwh  brethren,  and  receive  them  as  ourselves  ; — not  as 
HtranjyrerH,  hut  as  brothers  beloved.  By  this  shall  all  mon 
know  that  we  are  ('hriHl^j  disciples,  if  we  love  one  another. 
Love  is  of  God,  and  he  that  dwelleth  in  love  dwelleth  in 
(t«Kl,  and  (tod  in  him.  May  tho  CJotl  of  love  and  peace 
be  with  you,  and  crov/n  you  with  the  blessedness  of  con- 
tribulin«[  with  us  to  heal  the  wounds  of  the  Church,  and  to 
establish  that  '  fellowship  of  the  Spirit'  which  shall  enable 
us  to  Hay,  '  Behold  how  got)d  and  how  pleasant  it  is  for 
brethreti  to  dwell  together  in  unity !  It  is  like  the  pre- 
cious ointment  upon  the  head,  that  ran  down  upon  the 
beard,  oven  Aaron's  beard,  that  went  down  to  the  skirls 
of  his  garments.  As  tho  dew  of  llennon,  and  as  the  dew 
that  descended  upon  the  mountain  of  /ion  :  for  there  the 
Lord  commanded  the  blessing,  even  life  for  evermore.' 

*'  For  any  farther  information  that  you  may  desire  I  re- 
fer you  to  the  presiding  elder,  to  whom  it  is  given  in 
charge  to  make  this  communication  to  you ;  and  remain, 
dear  brethren,  with  the  same  affection  for  you,  in  the  bonds 
of  the  gospel  of  peace,  and  tho  best  wishes  and  prayers 
for  your  happiness  and  salvation, 

"  Wm.  M'Kendrek. 

'rAlexandria,  {D.  C.,)  October  16,  1820." 

These  proceedings  gave  general  satisfaction,  and 
tended  not  a  littler  to  allay  the  uneasiness  which  had 
resalted  from  the  collisions  of  individuals  in  the  two 
provinces,  as  well  as  to  m{iH\  the  asperities  of  those  who 
had  sufl'ered  the  heat  of  party  zeal  to  carry  them  be* 
3 


j3 


.ENDREB. 


1830.J  METiioDi»r  EnscoPAi  cHuiicii.  133 

yonrl  (he  bounds  „f  CliiiHlian  .,i,.,l,.ralion.     This  result 
uk,  ,lu,wH  how  liul,,  the  individual  and  local  i,„cres., 
of  a  fcw  air.ct  those  who«!  position  sivcs  them  a  com- 
"•••■hIh'K  and  impartial  view  of  the  whole  ground  of 
controversy,  and  who  consequently  feel  for  the  whole 
as  (or  every  part,  ami  for  every  part  an  for  the  whole. 
.Aud  ,t  ,s  no  snmll  co.n.nendation  of  the  Christian  spirit 
.y  winch  each  of  the  contrading  ,mieH  was  actuated, 
to  I".<1  Ihein  thus  ready  to  sacrifice  individual  and  lo,a 
nuercsls  lor  the  sake  of  binding  the  entire  Methmlist 
laniily  together  in  one  great  brotherhood. 

An  unproved  edition  of  our  Hymn  Itoofc  was  ordered 
by  Ihis  (general  (Conference  to  l«  printed  by  the  Ixiok 
agenta.  The  first  hymn  book  primed  in  this  country 
for  the  use  of  the  members  and  friends  of  our  Church 
was  smaH,  containing,  to  be  sure,  a  choice  selection,  but 
a  suffice.,  vanety  „f  hymns  to  suit  the  dilfeknt 

'":;  "'."1!   '"""""  '"=•''«'  »"''  'he  several  subjects 

»l""l«  might  be  intriKluced  into  the  pulpit,  and  o  her 

exercises  of  H,K=ial  worship  and  private  devodon.     i 

".    l.ee„  remedied,  as  was  supposed,  by  adding,  in 

fi.  n.  t„e  original  hymns  of  John  and  (Charles  Wesley  ■ 

«  IHK^rty  to  alter  many  of  the  hymns,  by  leaving  out 
\»ns  of  Stanzas,  altering  w.,„Is,  shortening  or  lengthen- 
!"«  O^nns,  without  much  judgment  or  l^te.     By  thl 

l".l.c.o„s  me,  lod  the  poetry  was  often  marredf  and 
'li-jmiraent  changed  much  for  the  worse. 

Ihese  things  led  ,|,e  New- York  conference  at  ita 
--on  m  1819,  to  request  the  b,x.k  coniinitteeT,;  nIw 

'  """""  "'  ""f  '»>""•  Uwk,  to  be  presented  to 

8 


134 


A    IIISTORV    OF   THE 


[1820. 


thiw  (JoiKHul  Conforciico,  wliicli  wus  done  accor(liti4fly. 
The  (Mmroroiicn  upprovoil  of  the  copy,  a  nil  onltMed  it  (o 
be  printed.  The  followinir  extract  from  the  prttCuce 
will  hhow  the  extent  of  and  nninonH  for  the  alterations: 

"  The  llyirin  Hook  heretofore  in  \ih(*  luuonjj;  as  hiiH  been 
thought  by  many  to  be  (lof(^ctiv(\  partly  on  arcouut  of  tlui 
n^atilatcul  8tal(>  of  hoiuo  of  tbo  bynujs,  aad  partly  bocaiwo 
of  ilH  boinir  divided  into  two  books.  To  remedy  tbeso  iu- 
conveiiienees,  nieasureH  liave  been  atlopted  to  prepare  a 
revised  edition  of  our  Hymn  Hook,  such  a  one  as  sliould 
exehid(>  tiio  defects  and  retain  the  excellences  of  the  ono 
heretofore  published. 

*'  The  greater  part  of  the  hymns  contained  in  the  former 
edition  are  retained  in  this,  and  several  from  Wesloys'  and 
Coke's  colleetit)ns,  nt>t  before  published  in  this  country, 
are  adcled.  The  principal  improvements  wliich  have  beon 
made  consist  in  restoring  those  which  had  been  altered, 
us  is  believ«Hl,  for  tlie  worse,  to  their  original  state,  as  they 
came  from  the  poetical  pen  of  the  Wesleys ;  for  the  fol- 
U»wing  hymns  were,  except  a  few  which  have  been  taken 
from  other  authors,  composed  by  the  Rev.  John  and  Charles 
Wesley — names  that  will  ever  be  hold  dear  and  in  hiifli 
estimation  by  every  lover  of  sacred  poetry." 

This  edition  of  the  Hynni  Rook  has  been  in  use  ever 
since,  unalteitHl,  except  the  addition  of  the  names  of  the 
tunes  at  the  head  of  each  hymn,  and,  in  1836,  of  a 
supplement,  which  was  prepanMl  in  conformity  to  the 
nHTonunendation  of  the  Geneml  Conference  of  1832. 

V\)  to  this  time  our  people  had  not  been  furnished 
with  a  tune  Inxik  suited  to  the  various  metres  of  our 
most  excellent  hymns.  This  CSeneral  Conference  or- 
dered tlie  editors  to  adopt  such  measures  as  they  might 
judgre  most  fit  to  supply  this  deHciency ;  and  they  ac- 


1820.]  METHODIST   EPI8C0PAI    CHURCH.  13S 

cordingly,  soon  after  ihe  adjournment  of  conference, 
appomtcd  a  committee  of  competent  persons  to  make  a 
selection  of  such  tunes  as  were  needed  to  enable  our 
congregations  to  use,  in  their  devotional  exercises,  any 
ami  every  hy,m,  in  the  published  collection  they  might 
choose,  without  being  compelled  to  omit,  for  the  want 
of  a  suitable  tune,  those  particular  metres  especially 
which  are  among  the  most  experimental,  spiritual,  and 
poetical  in  the  book.  The  following  preface  to  this 
cllectior.  of  tunes  will  show  the  reasons  for  and  the 
manner  in  which  the  work  was  accomplished  :_ 

bJlfh"  M*  ^"""^  '"'*  ""  interesting  and  important 
branch  of  divine  service,  that  every  effort  to  improve  the 
«,»„c„  of  sacrod  music  should  meet  with  oorre's^nd  ng 
ancouragemen.  Nothing  tends  more,  when  righUy  per! 
formed,  to  elevate  the  mind,  and  tune  it  to  the  strain,  of 
pure  devouon      Hence  the  high  estimation  in  which  it  ha, 

been  constantly  held  by  the  Christian  church.     Indeed 
every  ,,y„^i„^,  „^  ,^^     ^^.^^^^  IndeeJ, 

ended,  not  only  with  .ho  cultivation  and  enlargement  of 

owlcdge  .„  general,  but  of  sacred  poetry  and'music  In 

meular.     Singing  and  making  melody  in    he  heart  to 

.he  Lord  13  the  natural  result  of  having  the  love  of  God 

»e    abroad  .„  the  heart  by  the  Holy  Ipirit.     The  „tlo' 

0".  notes  of  niany  voices,  harmoniously  uniting  to  sound 

I  m  cuvint.      wno,  then,  can  be  uninterested  ii 

f  GoT  wt"'."'  "  "'"""  '"  "«"«««»'  •»  *e  church 
of  God  ■     What  heart  that  has  ever  vibraled  to  .he  in.p'r- 

ag  sound,  of  sacred  and  vocal  music,  but  must  exu  t'  „ 
every  a..emp.  that  is  made  to  cultivate  ,„d  diffuse  the 
knowledge  of  this  useful  auxiliary  m  spreading  ZI*! 
icuge  oi  Uud  our  Saviour !  "  -         . 


fSift 


136 


A   HISTORY    OF   THE 


[1820. 

"  Though  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  has  never 
been  insensible  to  the  advantages  resulting  from  the  know- 
ledge and  practice  of  vocal  music,  having  always  used  it 
—perhaps  more  than  most  other  denominations  of  Chris- 
tians— in  public  assemblies  and  private  associations  ;  yet 
a  suitable  tune  book,  adapted  to  the  various  hymns  and 
metres  of  its  Hymn  Book,  has  long  been  a  desideratum  in 
its  spiritual  economy.  Several  efforts,  indeed,  have  been 
made,  by  individuals,  to  supply  this  deficiency.  The  sub- 
ject was  brought  before  the  General  Conference  at  its  last 
session ;  and  it  was  finally  referred  to  the  discretion  of 
the  book  agents. 

"  Believing  such  a  collection  of  tunes,   as  should  be 
suited  to  the  various  metres  and  subjects  of  our  hymns, 
would  be  highly  advantageous  to  the  members  and  friends 
of  our  Church,  soon  after  the  conference  closed  its  session, 
the  agents  adopted  measures  to  accomplish  this  very  de- 
sirable object.     For  this  purpose  a  committee,  consisting 
of  members  of  our  Church,  was  appointed,  who,  besides 
their  competency  to  this  undertaking,  felt  a  deep  interest 
in  the  reputation  and  utility  of  this  very  important  part  of 
divine  service.     They  were  requested,  in  conformity  as 
nearly  as  practicable  to  the  requisition  of  our  Discipline, 
to  make  a  selection  of  tunes  from  authors  of  approved 
merit,  keeping  in  view  the  various  sections  of  our  widely 
extended  connection,  that  the  peculiarity  of  taste,  in  the 
choice  of  tunes,  might,  as  far  as  possible,  be  gratified. 
They  entered  upon  their  labor  with  cheerfulness,  and  per- 
severed  with  conscientious  care  and  diligence  until  they 
brought  their  work  to  a  close  :  and  the  tunes  comprised  iu 
the  following  selection  will  evince  the  result  of  their  ex 
ertions,  and  their  communication  to  the  agents,  with  which 
we  close  this  preface,  will  explain  the  manner  in  which 
they  executed  the  trust  confided  to  them. 
3 


1820.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  137 

"'Dear  Brethren :— Your  committee,  whose  task  it 
has  been,  by  your  request,  to  compile  a  book  of  tunes  for 
the  use  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  report :  That 
they  have  been  fully  aware  of  the  extreme  difficulty  of 
making  such  a  collection  of  tunes  as  should  in  all  respects 
be  accommodated  either  to  the  fancy  or  taste  of  every  sec- 
tion of  our  widely  extended  connection.  In  the  use  of  any 
particular  style  of  tunes,  so  much  generally  depends  upon 
education,  local  feelings,  or  mental  constitution,  that,  except 
with  those  who  are  skilled  in  the  science  of  music,  the 
choice  cf  a  tune  is  seldom  caused  by  a  discovery  of  its  in- 
trinsic worth,  or  its  adaptation  to  the  solemnities  of  Chris- 
tian worship.  Your  committee,  therefore,  will  neither  be 
surprised  nor  disappointed  if  their  selection,  in  coming  be- 
fore the  public,  meet  with  some  of  those  discouragements 
which  have  attended  works  of  a  similar  nature. 

"'Your  committee,  however,  have  not  been  regardless 
of  the  partialities  of  our  societies  in  different  parts  of  the 
Union.  They  have  availed  themselves  of  standard  work.' 
which  have  obtained  crlebrity  in  the  eastern  and  southern 
states,  as  well  as  those  that  are  in  general  use  among  us. 
The  best  European  authors  have  also  been  consulted. 
Books  edited  by  members  of  our  Church,  or  with  a  design 
to  suit  our  Hymn  Book,  have  received  particular  attention. 
They  have  neglected  no  means  of  ascertaining  the  wishes 
of  our  friends,  and  of  accommodating,  as  far  as  possible, 
their  plan  to  those  wishes. 

•"It  may  be  proper  to  suggest  that  the  primary  object 
of  your  committee  has  been,  not  to  prepare  a  collection  of 
tunes  for  social  circles  or  singing  associations,  (though 
they  hope  the  work  will  not  be  unacceptable  even  in  this 
light,)  but,  according  to  your  own  directions,  for  the  use 
of  worshiping  congregations.  They  have  therefore,  in  the 
first  place,  carefully  avoided  the  choice  of  all  such  tunes 
?is-  .rem  the  intricacy  or  unsuiiabieaess  of  th^ir  style,  are 


138 


A    HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1820. 

incapable  of  being  easily  learned  by  ordinary  congrega- 
tions ;  for  one  of  the  most  important  objects  of  public 
singing  is  lost  when  every  tuneful  voic*^  in  the  house  of 
God  cannot  join  in  the  solemn  exercise. 

"  *  Secondly,  In  cordial  approbation  of  that  clause  of 
our  Discipline  which  disapproves  of  fugue  tunes,  they  have 
(with  the  exception  of  a  very  few,  the  use  of  which  has 
been  established  by  general  praci*  ^  .sed  by  those  dis- 
tinguished by  that  peculiarity. 

"  *  Thirdly,  In  order  to  assist  leaders  of  singing,they 
have  carefully  affixed  over  each  hymn  in  the  new  Hymn 
Book  the  name  of  such  tune  as,  in  their  opinion,  is  suita- 
ble to  that  hymn. 

Your  committee  have  thought  proper  to  insert  brief 
instructions  in  the  rudiments  of  music,  which  will  be  found 
of  great  utility  where  the  work  is  introduced  into  singing 
schools. 

" '  Thus,  after  the  labor  of  nearly  a  twelvemonth,  your 
committee  have  the  pleasure  of  delivering  into  your  hands 
the  result  of  their  joint  exertions  :  they  are  happy  in  hav- 
ing this  opportunity  of  contributing  their  part  toward  the 
improvement  of  one  of  the  most  delightful,  as  well  as  one 
of  the  most  devotional  parts  of  divine  worship.     Uninflu- 
enced by  the  expectation  or  desire  of  any  pecuniary  re- 
compense, they  only  wish  as  a  reward  for  heir  labors  the 
-  approbation  of  their  brethren,  beloved  in  Christ,  who  com- 
pose the  general  and  annual  conferences,  and  that  of  the 
membership  of  the  Methodist  Church.      We  have  long 
needed  a  work  which  might  be  considered  as  a  standard 
of  music  for  our  connection  in  America.     That  which 
your  committee  present  to  you  is  an  attempt  for  this,  ac- 
cording to  the  best  of  their  judgment. 

" '  Finally,  praying  that  the  blessing  of  Heaven  may 
accompany  their  efforts,  they  would  subjoin  the  language 

of  our  bishODS  as  a  imat  AVnT-ABfainn  nf  iV.^:.  ^.. ..1 

i J J r^--js -„-i    m-cii  WWJiBCJililUCillS: 


lUCiilS  : 


1820.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  139 

"We  exhort  all  to  sing  with  the  Spirit  and  with  the  un 
derstanding  also ;  and  thus  may  the  high  praises  of  God 
be  set  up  from  east  to  west,  from  norjh  to  south ;  and  we 
shall  be  happily  instrumental  in  leading  the  devotion  of 
thousands,  and  shall  rejoice  to  join  them  in  time  and  eter- 
nity."—All  which  is  respectfully  submitted. 
''*  New- York,  October  23,  1821.'" 

This  book  continued  in  use  until  1832,  when  a  re- 
vised edition  of  these  tunes  was  published,  in  obedience 
to  the  orders  of  the  General  Conference.  In  1836,  be- 
lieving that  a  greater  variety  of  tunes  was  needed  to 
meet  the  wants  of  our  growing  Church,  better  suited  to 
the  various  tastes  and  peculiar  habits  of  the  several  sec- 
tions of  our  country,  our  book  agents  and  editors  adopted 
the  very  judicious  course  of  selecting  a  committee  com- 
posed of  a  member  from  Boston,  New- York,  Philadel- 
phia, and  Baltimore,  who  prepared  the  edition  now  in 
use,  and  which,  I  believe,  gives  general  satisfaction. 

With  a  view  to  prevent,  as  far  as  practicable,  our 
people  from  running  heedlessly  into  debt  in  procuring 
houses  of  worship,  to  secure  them  permanently  for  the 
use  of  the  ministers  and  members  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  in  the  places  where  they  should  be 
built,  as  well  as  to  check  the  practice  of  selling  or  rent- 
ing the  slips,  the  following  resolutions  were  adopted, 
and  ordered  to  be  incorporated  in  the  Discipline,  in  an- 
swer to  the  question,  « Is  any  thing  advisable  in  reeard 
to  building  ?"  * 

"  1.  That  from  this  date  no  house  of  worship  under  our 
charge  shall  be  built,  r  the  building  commenced,  until  the 
site  or  ground  on  which  such  house  or  houses  are  to  be 
located  is  secured  to  the  church  as  our  deed  of  settlement 
directs,  and  said  deed  is  legally  executed. 

8 


^'^^  A   HISTORY   OF    THE  [1820 

"  2.  That  from  and  after  this  date  no  house  of  worship 
under  our  charge  shall  be  commenced  until  three-fourths 
of  the  money  necessary  to  complete  the  building  be  in 
hand  or  subscribed.  The  estimate  of  the  sum  necessary 
lor  the  whole  expense  of  said  house  or  houses  to  be  made 
by  a  judicious  committee,  to  consist  of  at  least  three  mem- 
bers of  our  Church,  to  be  chosen  by  the  quarterly  meeting 
conference  of  the  circuit  or  station  in  which  such  house 
or  houses  are  designed  to  be  built. 

"3.  That  it  be  made  the  duty  of  each  presiding  elder 
and  preacher  in  charge  to  make  proper  inquiry  in  their 
distncts,  circuits,  and  stations  respecting  the  title  we 
have  to  our  houses  of  worship ;  and  in  all  cases  where  a 
title  IS  found  deficient,  to  adopt  the  most  judicious  and 
prudent  measures  to  have  them  secured  as  directed  in  our 
deed  of  settlement,  and  whenever  a  vacancy  is  found  in 
the  trusteeship  to  have  it  filled,  as  directed  in  the  Disci- 
pline. 

"4.  That  the  practice  of  building  houses  with  pews 
and  the  renting  and  selling  said  pews,  is  contrary  to  our 
economy,,  and  that  it  be  the  duty  of  the  several  annual 
conferences  to  use  their  influence  to  prevent  such  houses 
from  being  built  in  future,  and,  as  far  as  possible,  to  make 
those  free  which  have  already  been  buih  with  pews. 

"  5.  That  in  future  we  will  admit  of  no  charter,  deed,  or 
conveyance  for  any  house  to  be  used  by  us  as  a  house  of 
worship,  unless  it  be  provided  in  such  charter,  deed  or 
conveyance  that  the  trustees  of  said  house  shall  at'  all 
times  permit  such  ministers  and  preachers,  belonging  to  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  as  shall  from  time  to  time  be 
duly  authorized  by  the  General  Conference  of  said  Church, 
or  by  the  annual  conference,  to  preach  and  expound  God  s 
holy  word,  and  to  execute  the  rules  and  discipline  of  the 
Church,  and  to  administer  the  sacraments  therein,  according 

to  the  true  meaninir  and  mirnnrt  «f  «.,»  a a  ~c  _. ...1 . 

cf i — i —  --,1  vui  viocuui  3ciucm9nt." 


1820.1 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


141 


The  rule  iu  reference  to  the  preliminary  steps  to  be 
taken  in  regard  to  procuring  funds  for  building  churches 
has  been  but  little  heeded,  our  people  thinking,  proba- 
bly, that  they  understand  this  matter  better  than  the 
General  Conference,  and  hence,  in  many  instances, 
debts  have  been  contracted  to  such  an  amount  as  to 
render  the  situation  of  the  trustees  extremely  embar- 
rassing, if  not  indeed  almost  ruinous.    Nor  has  all  that 
has  been  said  and  done  to  prevent  the  renting  or  selling 
of  slips  checked  the  practice,  for  it  has  gone  on  steadily 
mcreasing  among  us  in  most  of  the  northern  confer- 
ences.    It  would  seem,  however,  that  the  advocates  for 
the  exclusive  free  seat  system  were  determined  at  this 
conterence  to  make  a  strong  effort  to  annihilate  the 
practice ;  for  in  the  first  answer  to  the  above  question, 
which  until  now  read,  "  Let  all  our  churches  be  built 
plain  and  decent,"  were  added  the  words,  « and  with 
free  seats."    This  amendment,  however,  was  not  ear- 
ned without  great  opposition  from  those  delegates  who 
felt  the  necessity,  either  to  have  no  houses  at  all,  or  to 
permit  them  to  be  built  with  a  view  to  rent  or  seU  the 
seats. 

A  very  imprtant  alteration  was  made  at  this  confer- 
ence in  respect  to  local  preachers.  Until  now  they  had 
been  identified  with  the  quarterly  meeting  conferences, 
had  received  their  license  to  preach  on  the  recommenda- 
tion of  this  meeting,  and  were  amenable  to  it  for  their 
moral,  Christian,  and  official  conduct,  with  the  privi- 
lege of  an  appeal  to  an  annual  conference  in  case  they 
had  been  censured,  suspended,  or  expelled  by  the  quar- 
terly conference.  A  little  uneasiness  had  been  mani- 
fested at  times,  by  .jome  of  the  local  preachers,  because 

they  thouirht:  fhftv  haA   Iw^on  t,Ur^A — J  _/• -jf  .1     • 


142 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1820 

rights,  in  not  being  permitted  to  be  examined,  licensed, 
and  tried  by  their  peers  exclusively.     To  remove  the 
cause  of  their  dissatisfaction  by  granting  the  privilege 
of  transacting  the  business  which  related  to  themselves 
exclusively,  this  General  Conference  crented  a  "  7^- 
trict  Conference,''  to  be  composed  of  "all  the  local 
preachers  in  the"  (presiding  elder's)  "district  who  shall 
have  been  licensed  two  years."    Of  this  meeting  the 
presiding  elder  of  the  district,  or,  in  his  absence,  such 
person  as  the  district  meeting  might  elect  for  the  pur- 
pose, was  to  be  president      This  conference  was  au- 
thorized to  grant  licenses  to  proper  persons  to  preach  as 
local  preachers,  to  r<inew  then:  licenses,  to  recommend 
to  annual  conferences  suitable  persons  for  deacon's  or 
elder's  orders  in  :he  local  ministr}-,  for  admission  on 
trial  in  an  annual  conference,  to  try,  suspend,  expel,  or 
acquit  such  local  preachers  as  might  be  accused  ;  but 
it  could   not  License  any  man  to  preach  unless  he 
were  recommended  by  a  quarterly  meeting  conference : 
in  fact,  all  Ihe  powers  formerly  belonging  to  the  quar- 
terly conference,  which  related  to  local  preachers,  except 
simply  rhe  privilege  of  recommending  the  candidates  to 
the  office  of  local  preachers,  were  transfeiTed  to  this  dis- 
trict conference. 

As  was  foreseen  by  some  who  were  opposed  to  this 
startling  innovation  upn  a  long  established  usage,  this 
conference  by  no  means  worked  well.  Many  of  the 
local  preachers  th  ^mselves  were  much  dissatisfied  with 
it,  and  hence,  in  various  parts  of  the  country,  it  was 
difficult  to  convene  a  sufficient  number  to  do  business  ; 
while  in  others,  where  they  were  most  active  in  pro- 
curing the  passage  of  the  law  creating  and  defining  the 
powers  of  this  conference;  a  spirit  of  insubordinatif^n,  in- 


1820. J  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL  CHURCH.  143 

compatible  with  the  rights  and  privileges  of  the  itine- 
rancy, began  to  manifest  itself;  and  there  can  be  no 
douU  that  this  injudicious  measure,  which  had  been 
presented  to  and  carried  through  the  confeience  with 
some  precipitancy,  tended  to  foment  that  spirit  of  radi- 
calism which  ended  in  the  secession  of  the  pari-  who 
styled  themselves  "Reformers,"  and  who  have  since  or- 
ganized under  the  name  of  the  "Protestant  Methodist 
Church." 

In  consequence  of  witnessing  these  e£%cts  of  the  pre- 
sent organization,  the  powers  of  the  district  conferences 
were  frotJi  time  to  time  somewhat  abridged,  replacing  in 
the  quarterly  meeting  conference  the  power  of  transact- 
ing the  affaus  relating  to  local  preachers,  where  and 
when  the  district  conference  did  not  acsemble  until 
finally,  in  1836,  the  district  conference  was  dissolved, 
and  Its  rights,  powers,  and  privileges  reverted  back  to 
the  quarterly  meeting  conference,  where  they  have  been 
and  are  now  exercised,  to  the  general  satisfaction  of  all 
concerned. 

As  the  constitution  of  our  Missionary  Society  contem- 
plated the  co-opeiation  of  the  General  Conference,  hav- 
ing given  authority  to  that  body  to  incorporate  an  article 
for  the  appointment  of  missionaries,  and  for  regulating 
the  manner  in  which  the  funds  for  their  support  should 
be  drawn,  the  subject  came  up  for  consideration  before 
this  General  Conference,  and  its  deliberations  resulted 
m  the  adoption  of  the  following  report,  which  was 
drawn  up,  I  believe,  by  the  late  Bishop  Emory  :— • 

"Your  committee  regard  the  Christian  ministry  as  pe- 
culiarly a  missionary  minisiry.  ♦  Go  ye  into  all  the  worid, 
and  preach  the  gospel  to  every  creature,'  is  the  very  found- 

3 


144 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1820 

ation  of  its  authority,  and  develops  its  character  simuUa- 
neously  with  its  origin. 

"  The  success  which  attended  the  itinerant  and  mission- 
ary labors  of  the  first  heralds  of  salvation  farther  establishes 
the  correctness  of  this  view,  and  demonstrates  the  divine 
sanction  of  this  method  of  spreading  the  gospel. 

"  In  process  of  time,  however,  the  missionary  spirit  de- 
clined, and  the  spirit  of  genuine  Christianity  with  it.  Then 
it  pleased  the  Lord  to  raise  up  the  Messrs.  Wesleys, 
Whitefield,  and  others,  through  whose  itinerant  and  mis- 
sionary labors  a  great  revival  of  vital  piety  was  commenced, 
the  progress  and  extent  of  which,  at  present,  your  com- 
mittee cannot  but  regard  as  catise  of  unbounded  thankful- 
ness and  pleasure. 

"  The  missions  of  Boardman  and  Pilmoor,  of  Wright,  of 
Asbury,  and  others,  are  events  in  our  history  not  soon  to 
be  forgotten.  A  grateful  people  feel  their  happy  influence 
and  hold  their  memory  dear,  and  generations  yet  unborn 
will  rise  up  and  call  them  blessed. 

"  Can  we,  then,  be  listless  to  the  cause  of  missions  ? 
We  cannot.  Methodism  itself  is  a  missionary  system. 
Yield  the  missionary  spirit,  and  you  yield  the  very  life- 
blood  of  the  cause. 

"  In  missionary  efforts  our  British  brethren  are  before 
us.  We  congratulate  them  on  their  zeal  and  their  success. 
But  your  committee  beg  leave  to  entreat  this  conference  to 
emulate  their  example.  The  time,  indeed,  may  not  yet 
be  come  in  which  we  should  send  our  missionaries  beyond 
seas.  Our  own  continent  presents  to  us  fields  sufficiently 
vast,  which  are  opening  before  us,  and  whitening  to  tht 
harvest.  These,  it  is  probable,  will  demand  all  the  labor- 
ers and  all  the  means  which  we  can  command  at  present. 
"  You  will  permit  your  committee  to  mention  some  of 
those  missionary  grounds  which  may  have  a  peculiar 
claim  to  your  first  attentions.     They  are  the  Canadas,  the 


1820.]  METHODIST  BPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  145 

Florida.,  the  state  of  Louisiana,  the  territories  of  Arkansas 
and  Missouri,  our  western  frontiers  generally,  having  re- 
gard to  those  who  use  the  French,  Spanish,  or  other  fo- 
reign languages,  as  well  as  to  those  who  use  the  English  • 
together  with  any  destitute  places  in  the  interior  in  which 
circuits  may  not  yet  have  been  formed,  and  where  it  may 
be  judged  important  to  have  efficient  missions. 

"  In  a  particular  manner  the  committee  solicit  the  atten- 
tion  of  the  conference  to  the  condition  of  the  aborigines  of 
our  country,  the  Indian  tribes.     American  Christians  are 
certainly  under  peculiar  obligations  to  impart  to  them  the 
blessmgs  of  civilization  and  Christian  light.     That  there 
13  no  just  cause  to  despair  of  success,  though  grace,  in 
his  charitable  and  pious  undertaking,  is  demonstrated  by 
he  fact  that  there  are  already  gathered  into  Church  fel- 
owship  about  sixty  members  of  the  Wyandot  tribe,  in  the 
state  of  Ohio ;  and  that  a  successful  mission,  under  our  ^! 
rection,  is  now  in  operation  among  them.     Why  might  not 
similar  success  attend  other  missions  among  other  tribes  ? 
the  Lord  s  arm  shortened  that  he  cannot  save  our  bro- 
thers  of  the  forest?  or  is  his  oar  heavy  that  he  will  not 
hear  m  their  behalf?  /     •  ««  wm  im 

"The  government  of  the  United  States  has  manifested 
a  disposition  toward  the  Indians  which  may  contribute 
mu.h,  not  only  to  their  civilization,  but  to  their  evangeli- 

n  r.  K  "'"^^  ^^""'^  ^""^"y  ^^^«  been  appro- 

ZT  I T^"""  ^"'  '^'  estabHshment  of  schools  sZng 

eZ'       I     t  '?  "  ''  '"^"^'■'^  '^^^  '^^  Pl*"  of  education 
embrace  for  the  boys,  in  addition  to  reading,  writing  and 

^^  the  practical  knowledge  of  agric'dtur^d  of 

the  InH  T.  ""'''  ^  ""''  '"^'"^  ^  '^^  condition 

sewing     This  your  committee  consider  a  very  judicious 

2^^:^err..^c^^,  -iththe  dL^stf^ 

""     '  "  "'""  "'  '^"»"ies,  who  might  be  estabUshed 

10  8 


% 


146  A    HISTORY    OF  THB  [1820. 

among  tliem,  as  teachers  in  those  schools,  whih?  their 
wives  would  assist  in  the  instruction  of  the  girls  in  their 
appropriate  departments.  The  civilization  of  the  Indians 
wi)l  promote  their  evangelization. 

"  Inde<jd,  your  committee  are  decidedly  of  opinion,  that 
it  is  the  rising  generation  among  the  Indians  to  whom  your 
attention  should  be  chiefly  directed  ;  and  that  the  institu- 
tion of  schools  among  them,  on  the  government  plan,  and 
under  the  government  patronage,  should  bo  your  first  care. 
It  will  be  necessary,  at  the  same  time,  in  the  appointment 
of  toachei's  to  select  suitable  persons,  with  a  view  to  the 
ulterior  object  of  Christian  instruction,  both  to  the  youth 
and  the  adult ;  which  object,  it  is  evident,  will  be  greatly 
promoted  by  means  of  a  common  language ;  by  the  influ- 
ence which  a  teacher  will  have  over  the  youth ;  and  by 
the  free  access  which  will  be  gained,  through  them,  to 
their  parents  and  friends.  This  is  the  course  which  has 
been  pursued  by  our  missionary  brethren  of  the  Britisii 
connection  in  the  island  of  Ceylon,  and,  your  committee 
believe,  with  great  success. 

"  Several  denominations  have  already  availed  themselves 
of  the  proffered  aid  of  government  above  mentioned,  and 
have  flourishing  schools,  of  a  missionary  character,  now 
in  operation  among  different  tribes. 

"The  American  Board  of  Commissioners  for  Foreign 
Missions  have  an  establishment  of  this  kind  on  the  Chick- 
amaugah,  in  the  Cherokee  country,  and  another  among  the 
Choctaws.  At  the  first  are  about  one  hundred  Indian  chil- 
dren, and  at  the  second  from  forty  to  sixty.  This  board 
have  also  directed  their  attention  to  the  country  west  of 
the  Mississippi,  and  an  establishment  similar  to  those 
above  named  is  already  in  a  state  of  forwardness  there. 
Besides  these,  branches  are  organized  in  diflferent  parts  of 
the  Cherokee  and  Choctaw  countries ;  and  measures  are 
in  operuliou  to  establish  tw^o  other  principal  schools,  one 
3 


1820.]  METHODIST    KP.SOOPAl    CHURCH.  I47 

for  the  benefit  of  the  Creeks  and  the  other  for  the  Chick- 

asaws,  v>im..n.- 

rrl  J  r  ""'""'  """"'^ ''"™  "  "='«'»'  i"  Kentucky,  at  the 
Great  Crossmg,,  to  which  fifteen  or  twenty  Indili  chu! 
dren  have  been  sent  fro™  the  Indian  county:  and  they 

cimi^r  ^'"'"■"' "" ""'  ^^"^^-r"--" '-« 

"At  Spring.place,  in  the  Cherokee  n.atio„,  there  has 
been  a  school  for  fourteen  years,  under  the  are  of  the 
Moravtans.  wh.ch  is  said  to  have  been  productive  of  much 

"The  United  Foreign  Missionary  Society  of  Ncw-York 
are  .bout  organizing  a  school  west  of  the  Mississippi  a,  d 
also  or  the  benefit  of  the  emigrant  Cherokees.  lll'^^ 
po.od  they  W.1I  go  i„,„  operation  in  ,he  course  of  thL 
spring  and  summer.  ' 

"Your  committee  had  felicitated  themselves  on   the 
P  casu,g  and  ,„v.t.„g  openings  for  such  institutions  which 
had  appeared  particularly  among  the  Wyandots ;  of  which 
ribe  many  through  the  ins.rumentalit;  of  our  mission 
have  already  been  turned  from  darkness  to  light,  and  from 
he  power  of  Satan  unto  God.     But  while  we  have  been 
de  aying.  others  have  stepped  in.     The  agent  of  that  tribe 
ha    informed  a  member  of  your  committee  that  he  has 
written  to  the  secretary  of  war  to  place  the  proportion  of 
Ihe  ten  thousand  dollars  per  annum,  allowed  by  congress 
which  may  be  allotted  ,„  that  agency,  a.  the  disposll  „f 
•he  commmee  of  Friends  on  Indian  concerns,  in  this  city  • 
ami  they  have  it  in  contemplation  to  open  three  schools 
the  ensuing  summer,  in  the  said  agency. 

"  Your  committee  hope  not  to  bo  understood  as  express- 
'ng  miy  regret  at  the  ^eal  of  other  denominations  in  so 
good  .a  cause.  Far  from  it.  The  mention  of  this  is  in- 
tended  rather  to  provoke  ourselve,  m  io„.  „...,  ...  ___  . 
works.     There  yet  is  room. 


Uij. 


m 


148  A   HISTORY    OF    THE  [1820. 

"  From  the  above  skptch  it  will  be  seen  how  the  spirit 
oC  rriissions  Im  dilTuHinpf  itself  in  our  country.  It  ought  to 
be  cherished  and  rij^htly  directed.  If  we  do  not  cherish  it, 
others  will.     It  is  of  God,  and  will  prevail. 

"  Indeed,  many  of  the  Indians  themselves,  borderinisf  on 
our  improved  settlements,  are  roused  to  a  sense  of  their 
deplorable  condition.  With  outstretched  arms  they  cry  to 
us,  and  say,  •  Come  and  help  us !'  Your  committee  be- 
lieve it  a  call  of  Providence,  which  should  be  obeyed. 
With  those  views  they  submit  the  following  resolutions, 
viz. : — 

"  Kesolved,  by  the  delegates  of  the  annual  conferences 
in  General  Conference  assiunbled, 

"  1.  Thiit  this  conference  do  highly  approve  of  the  in- 
stitutirm  of  the  Missicmary  Society  of  the  Methodist  Epis- 
copal Cburdi  in  \\iv  city  of  New-York,  and,  on  the  recom- 
niendution  of  the  managers  thereof,  do  agree  to  and  adopt 
its  constitution. 

"  2.  Thiit  it  be,  and  hereby  is,  earnestly  recommended 
to  all  the  annual  conferences  to  take  such  measures  as  they 
may  deem  most  advisabh?  for  tho  establishment  of  branch 
societies,  auxiliary  to  the  parent  Methodist  Missionary  So- 
ciety at  New- York,  in  all  convenient  and  practicable  places 
within  their  bomuls  ;  and  <hat  it  be  the  duty  of  the  general 
superintendents  to  (•ommunicate  this  recommendation  to 
the  said  conferences,  and  to  use  their  best  endeavors  and 
influence  to»have  it  carried  into  speedy  and  general  efiect 

"  3.  That  this  conference  do  fully  approve  of  the  plan 
of  education  for  the  civilization  of  the  Indians,  required  l»y 
a  circular,  in  conformity  with  an  act  of  congress,  issued 
from  the  department  of  war,  by  the  Hon.  J.  C.  Calhoun,  on 
the  Hd  of  So-i»einber,  1819,  and  by  a  supplement  thereto, 
issued  from  tho  same  deparlmonl  on  the  29th  of  February 
last ;  and  that  they  do  hereby  authorize  the  general  super- 
'.ntenueniH  of  the  Mcihoiiisi  Episcopal  Church,  and  any 


1820]  «KT„OD„r   .,P„00,«   OHtTRCH.  ,49 

othem  who,  under  their  direction  „,.    k 
tablishing.organizinir  orrirf?'     ^    '  ""^^^  '"  ««• 
.0  act  in  conflJ^Xewt      "^ '""''  "''"°' "'  "-'"«"«■ 

por.o,fn,ay  be  aiTinTe;  l^ir'^T''"^  » 

pedient,  to  have  erarl  IV  1  '"  ^^  """^ ''''""' ''  '''- 
W  in  that  direction  inthe  K  '""™"''  *'''^''  ""•  "  -"-y 
tcndents.  '  "  ""  ^'"'^"<^«  »f  "•«  genera]  superin- 

^i:e^i^::h:raCi:r:rts^^^^^^ 

Cic,  ,„„„,,  an.,  e„u„„„  plao,,,    atl    h  ^  T     '"  ""' 
an<l  i»  hereby  earnertly  urg^d  ™  I  "".''"""  '"= 

-y  be  appoi„.e,  ,„  sl^XZ^^ZTt:  """ 
"^specially  in  Nation,  „hete  such  f„  ,  "7'  ""''  ""'^^ 
Siven  with  the  greatest  rZ.  .  '"f""^"""'  '"ay  be 
K-d  cause  tl,o  sai^UrctllT'  ''  T^  *"""' ^  '"  «'"^'' 
I'y  all  prudent  and  affecti™!  """•  ""''  '«1"*''«''. 

1-.d  .othesaid       •  ,:fof'^r'"  ""'  ""•'  hereby  are,  ren: 
"J"p.od  a  nJiS  :Z^  2 '''V"'>J-'  =  but  that,  having 

t»  «3,.bli,hed  in  N  wCll  •'■""-"""'  ""'"•'' '° 
l'"Wi'Wng  of  Bible,  1,1  "''■'''""  "^  '"'>'<=''  ">o 

™"'air.od'in  the  s!:i^    d  r  r^ Jpr,'  fl  "«'  '-»- 
™'  Ihc  recommendation  of  tt  '^'"'>J«lpl"a,  and  also 

ooa.„,npla,ing  very    ZrtVn  °  r  ^'"'■'^"^''.  --i 

l-o„.  n.i-ionary'^soaC^;  :,' tr'r"  '™"'  ''"""'^  "'« 

-  —.ucei,  :tt'r:  ,:?„,.'■!:.  «"t . """■ 

-•- tor  the  ttme  being  .nay  alway,  heLrrrLrot 


J^ 


150  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1820. 

this  General  Conference  do  respectfully  and  affectionately 
recommend  to  the  society  in  Philadelphia  to  become  aux- 
iliary to  that  in  New-York. 

"  All  which  is  respectfully  submitted. 

"  Wm.  Ryland,  Chairman. 

«  Baltimore,  May  15,  1820." 

It  will  be  perceived  from  the  sixth  resolution  of  this 
report  that  our  brethren  in  Philadelphia  had  also  pre- 
sented an  address  to  the  conference,  in  reference  to  their 
missionary  society,  and  likewise  the  reasons  for  the  pre- 
ference give  to  the  one  which  originated  in  the  city  of 
New- York;  the  chief  of  which  was,  that  the  location  of 
the  parent  society  might  be  in  the  same  place  with  the 
Book  Concern,  as  it  was  expected  that  these  two  insti- 
tutions would  greatly  aid  and  mutually  support  each 
other,  and  experience  has  proved  that  the  expectation 
was  well  founded. 

At  the  formation  of  this  society  it  was  intended  to 
print  and  circulate  Bibles  and  Testaments  gratuitously, 
in  connection  with  spreading  the  gospel  by  means  of 
missionary  labors ;  and  hence  it  was  called  the  "  Mis- 
sionary and  Bible  Society  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church  ;"  but  being  convinced,  upon  more  mature  re- 
flection, that  the  American  Bible  Society,  which  was 
now  in  successful  operation,  was  fully  adequate  to  the 
task  of  supplying  the  community  with  the  sacred  Scrip- 
tures, tile  society  recommended  to  the  General  Confer- 
ence to  strike  the  word  Bible  from  the  title,  that  it 
might  confine  its  efTorts  exclusively  to  missionary  la- 
bors, and  so  more  effectually  fulfil  the  primary  design 
of  its  organization.  This  was  accordingly  done,  and 
the  word  "  A?nerica"  was  also  stricken  out,  as  this  was 

linrmmoanrv    tn    noainrnnto   flio    fVtarantav    r\(    tlto    cirk/>iotv 

...... ...*.^        ^^f.      ,».,..,-  --.^^.^,     V..--      • -•  s*.ts  ■•■*-w'*^w-l      ^-'1.      flX^-     rrW'SV'-^  ; 

3 


airman. 


1820.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  151 

there  being  no  other  missionary  society  of  the  «  Method- 
ist Episcopal  Church''  in  existence. 

As  the  original  constitution  of  this  society  has  been 
altered  from  time  to  time  by  the  General  Conference, 
on  the  recommendation  of  the  board  of  managers,  that 
the  reader  may  see  at  once  how  the  affairs  of  the  society 
are  conducted,  and  for  what  ends,  I  will  insert  the  con- 
stitution as  it  now  stands,  (1839,)  without  referring  to 
the  minutiae  of  those  amendments  by  whicll  it  has  been 
brought  to  its  present  improved  character.  It  is  as  fol- 
lows : — 

"REVISED  CONSTITUTION 
Of  the  Missionary  Society  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 

Church. 
"Art.  1.    This  association,  denominated  *The  Mis- 
sionary Society  OF  THE  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  ' 
IS  established  for  the  express  purpose  of  enabling  the  se- 
veral annual  conferences  more  effectually  to  extend  their 
missionary  labors  throughout  the  United  States  and  else- 
where ;  and  also  to  assist  in  the  support  and  promotion  of 
missionary  schools  and  missions  in  our  own  and  in  foreign 
countries.  ° 

"  Art.  2.  The  payment  of  two  dollars  annually  shall 
constitute  a  member ;  the  payment  of  twenty  dollars  at  one 
time  a  member  for  life. 

"  Art.  3.  The  officers  of  this  society  shall  consist  of  a 
president,  vice  presidents,  clerk,  treasurer,  and  assistant 
^easurer,  who  together  with  thirty-two  managers,  shall 
lorm  a  board  for  the  transaction  of  business.  They  shall 
all  be  members  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  and 
be  annua^^^y  elected  by  the  society.  Each  annual  confer- 
ence  shall  have  also  the  privilege  of  appointing  one  vice 
president  from  its  own  body.  .       . 

"  Art.  4.  There  shall  aiso  be  a  resident  corresponding 


iS2  A    HI8T0RT    OF    THE  [1820. 

secretary  appoihted  by  the  General  Conference,  whose 
salary  shall  be  fixed  and  paid  by  the  board  of  managers, 
who  shall  be  exclusively  employed  in  conducting  the  cor- 
respondence of  the  society,  and,  under  the  direction  of  the 
board,  in  promoting  its  general  interests,  by  traveling  or 
otherwise.  With  the  approbation  of  the  managers,  he  may 
employ  such  assistance,  from  time  to  time,  as  may  be 
judged  necessary  for  the  interests  of  the  cause ;  the  com- 
pensation for  wliich  shall  be  fixed  by  the  board.  He  shall 
be,  ex  officio,  a  member  of  the  board  of  managers.  Should 
his  office  become  vacant  by  death,  resignation,  or  other- 
wise, the  board  shall  have  power  to  provide  for  the  duties 
of  the  office  until  the  next  session  of  the  New- York  con- 
ference, which,  with  the  concurrence  of  the  presiding 
bishop,  shall  fill  the  vacancy  until  the  ensuing  General 
Conference. 

"  Art.  5.  The  board  shall  have  authority  to  make  by- 
laws for  regulating  its  own  proceedings,  to  appropriate 
money  to  defray  incidental  expenses,  and  to  print  books  at 
our  own  press,  for  the  benefit  of  Indian  and  other  foreign 
missions,  fill  up  vacancies  that  may  occur  during  the  year, 
and  shall  present  a  statement  of  its  transactions  and  funds 
to  the  society,  at  its  annual  meeting,  and  also  shall  lay 
before  the  General  Conference  a  report  of  its  transactions 
for  the  four  preceding  years,  and  the  state  of  its  funds. 

"  Art.  6.  Ordained  ministers  of  the  Methodist  Episco- 
pal Church,  whether  traveling  or  local,  being  members  of 
this  society,  shall  bet,  «x  ofiido,  members  of  the  board  of 
managers. 

"  Art.  7.  The  annual  meeting,  for  the  election  of  offi- 
cers and  managers,  shall  be  held  on  the  third  Monday  in 
April,  in  the  city  of  New- York. 

"  Art.  8.  At  all  meetings  of  the  society  and  of  the  board, 
the  president,  or,  in  his  absence,  the  vice  president  first  on 
ih«  liit  ihoi'i  pretieiU,  and  in  the  absence  of  ail  the  vice 


1820.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  153 

presidents,  a  member  appointed  by  the  meeting  for  that 
purpose,  shall  preside. 

"  Art.  9.  Twenty-five  members,  at  aU  meetings  of  the 
society,  and  thirteen  at  all  meetings  of  the  board  of  mana- 
gers, shall  be  a  quorum. 

''Art.  10.  The  minutes  of  each  meeting  shall  be 
signed  by  the  chairman. 

"Art.  11.  It  is  recommended,  that  within  the  bounds 
ot  each  annual  conference  there  be  established  a  confer- 
ence missionary  society,  auxiliary  to  this  institution,  with 
branches,  under  such  regulations  as  the  conferences  shall 
respectively  prescribe.     Each  conference,  or  other  aux- 
ihary  society,  shall  annually  transmit  to  the  corresponding 
secretary  of  this  society  a  copy  of  its  annual  report,  em- 
bracing the  operations  of  its  branches,  and  shall  also  no- 
tify the  treasurer  of  the  amount  collected  in  aid  of  the  mis- 
sionarj'  cause,  which  amount  shall  be  subject  to  the  order 
of  the  treasurer  of  the  parent  society,  as  provided  for  in 
the  thirteenth  article. 

"Art.  12.  Any  auxiliary  or  branch  society  may  appro- 
priate any  part  or  the  whole  of  its  funds  to  any  one  indi- 
vidual mission,  or  more,  under  the  care  of  this  society, 
which  special  appropriation  shall  be  publicly  acknowledged 
by  the  board :  but  in  the  event  that  more  funds  be  raised 
lor  any  individual  mission  than  is  necessary  for  its  sup- 
port, the  surplus  shall  go  into  the  general  treasury  of  the 
parent  society,  to  be  appropriated  as  the  constitution  di- 
reels. 

"Art.  13.  The  treasurer  of  this  society,  mider  the  di- 
rection  of  the  board  of  managers,  shall  give  information  to 
the  bishops  annually,  or  oftener,  if  the  board  judge  it  ex- 
pedient, of  the  state  of  the  funds,  and  the  sums  which  may 
be  drawn  by  them  for  the  missionary  purposes  contem- 
plated  by  this  constitution :  agreeably  to  which  informn. 
"oa  the  bishops  shall  have  authority  to  draw  upon  the 


154 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1820. 


.*  i 


I'll 


treasurer  for  any  sum  within  the  amount  Jesignated,  which 
the  missionary  committee  of  the  annual  conferences  re- 
spectively shfall  judge  necessary  for  the  support  of  the 
missions  and  of  the  mission  schools  under  their  care  ;  pro- 
vided always,  that  the  sums  so  allowed  for  the  support  of 
a  missionary  shall  not  exceed  the  usual  allowance  of  other 
itinerant  preachers.  The  bishops  shall  always  promptly 
notify  the  treasurer  of  all  drafts  made  by  them,  and  shall 
require  regular  quarterly  communications  to  be  made  bv 
each  of  the  missionaries*  to  the  corresponding  secretary 
of  the  society,  giving  information  of  the  state  and  prospects 
of  the  several  missions  in  which  they  are  employed.  No 
one  shall  be  acknowledged  a  missionary,  or  receive  sup- 
port out  of  the  funds  of  this  society,  who  has  not  some  de- 
finite field  assigned  to  him,  or  who  could  not  be  an  effective 
laborer  on  a  circuit. 

"  Art.  14.  Whenever  a  foreign  mission  is  to  be  esta- 
blished, either  among  the  aborigines  of  our  country  or 
elsewhere,  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  bishop  making  such 
appointment  immediately  to  notify  the  treasurer  of  the  mis- 
sionary society  of  the  place,  the  number  of  missionaries  to 
be  employed,  together  with  the  probable  amount  necessary 
for  the  support  of  any  such  mission ;  which  information 
shall  be  laid  before  the  managers  of  the  society ;  and  they 
shall  make  an  appropriation  according  to  their  judgment, 
from  year  to  year,  of  the  amount  called  for  to  sustain  and 
prosecute  the  mission  or  missions  designated ;  for  which 
amount  the  missionary,  or  the  superintendent  of  the  mis- 
sion or  missions,  shall  have  authority  to  draw  on  the  trea- 
surer of  the  society,  in  quarterly  or  half-yearly  instalments. 

'*  Art.  15.  In  all  cases  of  the  appointment  of  a  mission- 

*  The  spirit  of  this  requirement  is  complied  with  by  the 
report  of  a  superintendent  of  any  missionary  district,  in 
which  he  embraces  a  general  account  of  the  several  missions 
under  his  care. 
3 


a  mission- 


1820.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  155 

ary,  the  name  of  such  missionary,  and  the  district  in  which 
he  is  to  labor,  together  with  the  probable  expenses  of  the 
mission,  shall  be  communicated  by  the  bishop  or  the  mis- 
sion committee  of  each  annual  conference  to  the  treasurer 
of  this  society,  that  a  proper  record  of  the  same  may  be 
preserved. 

"Art.  16.  This  constitution  shall  not  be  altered  but  by 
the  General  Conference,  upon  the  recommendation  of  the 
board  of  managers." 

It  was  ordered  that  five  hundred  copies  of  the  report 
on  missions,  together  witli  the  amended  constitution, 
should  be  immediately  printed,  that  the  delegates  might 
furnish  themselves  with  copies  to  carry  to  their  respective 
districts  and  circuits. 

These  doings  of  the  conference  in  relation  to  the  Mis- 
sionary Society  exerted  a  most  favorable  influence  upon 
the  cause,  and  tended  mightily  to  remove  the  unfounded 
objections  which  had  existed  in  some  minds  against  this 
organization. 

Having  witnessed  much  confusion  in  the  conference 
when  appeals  from  the  lower  tribunals  had  been  pre- 
sented, the  following  clause  was  added  to  the  Discipline, 
with  a  view  to  regulate  the  manner  in  which  appeals 
should  be  hereafter  conducted : — 

"  In  all  the  above-mentioned  cases  it  shall  be  the  duty 
of  the  secretary  of  the  annual  conference  to  keep  regular 
minutes  of  the  trial,  including  all  the  questions  proposed 
to  the  witnesses,  and  their  answers,' together  with  the 
crime  with  which  the  accused  is  charged,  the  specification 
or  specifications,  and  also  preserve  all  the  documents  re- 
lating to  the  case,  which  minutes  and  documents  only,  in 
case  of  an  appeal  from  the  decision  of  an  annual  confer- 
ence, shall  be  presented  to  the  General  Conference,  in 

8 


156  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1820. 

evidence  on  the  case.     And  in  all  cases  when  an  appeal 
is  made,  and  admitted  by  the  General  Ccnferonce,  the  ap- 
pellant  shall  either  state  personally  or  by  his  representa- 
tivcj   (who  shall   be   a  member  of  the   conference)  the 
grounds  of  his  appeal,  showing  cause  why  he  appeals,  and 
he  shall  be  allowed  to  make  his  defence  without  intemip- 
tion.     After  wliich  the  representatives  of  the  annual  con- 
ference, from  whose  decision  the  appeal  is  made,  shall  be 
permitted  to  respond  in  presence  of  the  appellant,  who 
shall  have  the  privilege  of  replying  to  such  representa- 
tives,  which  shall  close  the  pleadings  on  both  sides.    Thi. 
done,  the  appellant  shall  withdraw,  and  the  conference 
shall  decide.     And  after  such  form  of  trial  and  expulsion, 
the  person  so  expelled  shall  have  no  privileges  of  society 
or  sacraments  in  our  Church,  without  confession,  contri- 
tion, and  proper  trial." 

These  are  all  the  acts  and  doings  of  this  conference 
worthy  of  record,  except  what  has  been  heretofore  no- 
ticed concerning  the  election  and  duties  of  presiding 
elders,  and  the  resolutions  regarding  the  Book  Con- 
cern and  slavery,  which  will  be  noted  in  another  place. 
It  may  be  proper,  however,  to  add,  that  Nathan  Bangs 
was  elected  principal,  and  Thomas  Mason  assistant 
agent  and  editor  of  the  Book  Concern ;  and  as  this  con- 
ference resolved  to  establif»h  a  branch  at  Cincinnati, 
Miutin  Ruter  was  appointed  to  its  agency. 

The  conference  adjourned  May  the  27tli,  to  meet 
again  in  the  city  of  Baltimore,  May  1,  1824. 

The  conflicting  opinions  in  relation  to  the  presiding 
elder  question,  on  slavery,  and  concerning  renting  pews 
in  churches,  and  some  other  matters,  had  elicited  consi- 
derable debate,  and  sometimes,  as  is  usual  on  such  oc- 
casions, not  of  the  most  hallowed  and  conciliatory  cha- 


•  wvv^ 


iU 


icans  iiiu  ieeiuigo  oi  some  of  the 


I 


1820.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  157 

iiienibers  were  somewhat  chafed,  and  they  went  home 
under  a  state  of  mind  not  the  most  friendly  one  toward 
another.  Time  for  calm  deliberation,  however,  and  the 
mutual  interchange  of  sentiments  and  feelings  in  their 
respective  annual  conferences,  gradually  wore  away 
this  momentary  irritation,  and  restored  them  to  that 
fervor  of  spirit  and  devotion  to  the  cause  of  God  by 
which  they  had  been  heretofore  distinguished. 


CHAPTER  VI. 

From  the  Close  of  the  General  Conference  of  1820  to  the  Beginning 
of  the  General  Conference  of  1824. 

AccoRDiNO  to  the  decision  of  the  late  General  Con- 
ference, there  was  an  additional  annual  conference  cre- 
ated this  year  called  Kentucky,  making  in  all  twelve. 
This  conference,  it  was  stated,  "  shall  include  the  Ken- 
tuck-y.  Salt  River,  Green  River,  and  Cumberland  dis- 
tricts, and  that  part  of  the  state  of  Virginia  included  in 
the  Green  Brier  and  Monroe  circuits,  heretofore  belong- 
ing to  the  Baltimore  conference,  and  the  Kenawa  and 
Middle  Island  circuits,  heretofore  belonging  to  the  Ohio 
conference." 

This  division  of  labor  into  twelve  annual  conferences 
gave  to  each  effective  bishop— for,  as  Bishop  M'Kendree 
had  been  released  from  effective  labor  in  consequence 
of  his  debility,  there  were  but  two — six  conferences  to 
attend,  which,  in  the  extension  of  the  work,  particularly 
ia  the  west  and  south-west,  made  their  labors  extremely 
arduous.  They,  however,  entered  upon  their  work 
with  diligence  and  zeal ;  and  although  Bishop  M'Ken- 

3 


w 


158 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1820. 


«: 


dree  was  not  required  to  perform  elective  service,  yet 
he  attended  as  many  of  the  conferences  as  his  strength 
would  allow,  and  was  particularly  useful  in  the  mission- 
ary department  of  the  work,  in  which  he  took  a  deep 
and  lively  interest. 

Notwithstanding  what  had  been  done  to  supply  the 
destitute  portions  of  our  country  with  the  word  and  or- 
dinances of  Christianity,  there  were  yet  many  parts  un- 
provided for,  particularly  in  the  south-western  states  and 
territories.     The  state  of  Louisiana,  which  contained  at 
this  time  not  less  than  220,000  inhabitants,  about  one 
fourth  of  whom  were  slaves,  was  almost  entirely  desti- 
tute  of  evangelical  instruction.     About  three  fourths  of 
the  population  were  French  Roman  Catholics,  but  few 
of  whojii  could  either  speak  or  understand  the  English 
language,  and  the  greater  proportion  of  these  had  never 
heard  a  Protestant  minister. 

In  this  large  territory  there  was  a  presiding  elder's 
district,  including  only  two  circuits,  called  Attakapas 
and  Washataw,  in  which  there  were  one  hundred  and 
fifty-one  white  and  fifty-eight  colored  members,  under 
the  charge  of  three  preachers,  including  the  presiding 
elder.  How  inadequate  they  were  all  to  meet  the  spi- 
ritual wants  of  the  people,  may  be  inferred  from  the 
fact,  that  one  of  these  preachers  traveled  not  less  than 
five  hundred  and  eighty  miles  every  five  weeks,  in  or- 
der to  preach  to  as  many  of  the  people  in  their  scattered 
settlements  as  he  possibly  could.  In  this  state  of  things 
the  few  whose  hearts  the  Lord  had  touched  sent  up  a 
loud  and  urgent  call  to  the  rulers  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church,  and  made  their  earnest  appeals  to 
the  managers  of  our  Missionary  Society  for  ministerial 
help.  After  consulting  with  Bishop  M'Kendree  in 
3 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL   CHURCH. 


159 


is,  in  or- 


1820.] 

reference  to  the  best  manner  of  answering  these  earnest 
appeals,  the  managers  selected  a  young  preacher  of 
promising  talents,  Ebenezer  Brown,  who  was  approved 
of  and  appointed  by  Bishop  George,  and,  with  a  view  to 
qiiahfy  himself  for  his  work,  he  entered  upon  the  study 
of  the  French  language.     He  went  finally  to  his  field 
of  labor,  but  the  enterprise  proved  a  failure.     Such 
were  the  prejudices  of  the  French  population,  fomented 
as  they  were  by  priestly  influence,  that  the  missionary 
could  gain  no  access  to  the  people ;  and  hence,  after 
spending  some  time  in  preaching  to  an  English  con- 
gregation in  New-Orleans,  he  returned  to  the  New- 
York  conference,  in  which  he  continued  until  he  located. 
But  though  these  efforts  to  send  the  gospel  in  that 
direction,  like  many  others  of  a  similar  character  which 
had  been  made  to  benefit  the  Catholic  population,  were 
unsuccessful,  the  prospects  in  other  places,  particularly 
among  the  aborigines  of  our  country,  were  more  flatter- 
ing.    These  long  neglected  people,  the  original  lords  of 
the  soil,  began  to  attract  the  attention  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church,  and  by  one  of  those  singular  provi- 
dences which  so  strikingly  indicate  the  wisdom  and 
power  of  God  in  selecting  the  means  for  the  accom- 
plishment of  his  purposes  of  mercy,  a  work  of  grace  had 
been  commenced  among  the  Wyandot  Indians  in  Up- 
per Sandusky,  in  the  state  of  Ohio. 

That  the  reader  may  duly  estimate  the  difficulties 
with  which  the  missionaries  had  to  contend,  in  their 
efforts  to  convert  these  savages  to  the  Christian  faith, 
it  is  necessary  that  he  should  know  something  of  their 
superstitions,  customs,  and  manner  of  living,  as  well 
as  the  great  diversity  of  languages  which  are  spoken  by 
the  several  tribes. 


160 


A   HISTORY  OF  THB 


[1820 


Within  the  bounds  of  the  United  States  and  territo- 
ries there  were  remaining,  according  to  the  most  accu- 
rate estimate  whicL  could  be  made  of  all  the  numerous 
tiibes  which  once  inhabiisd  this  land,  only  about  one 
hundred  and  thirty  thousand;  and  tliere  were  supposed 
to  be  in  the  Canadas,  chiefly  of  the  Chippeway,  Mo- 
hawk, and  Missisauga  tribes,  about  fifty  thousand  more. 
Such  inroads  had  disease,  wars,  and  intemperance 
made  upon  this  once  numerous  and  powerful  people, 
the  aboriginal  lords  of  the  soil,  that  these  several  tribes 
of  Indians  were  but  fragments  of  what  they  once  were, 
scattered  about  in  imall  insulated  groups,  some  of  them 
half  civilized,  and  many  melted  down  to  mere  handfuls 
in  comparison  to  their  former  numbers. 

These  one  hundred  and  thirty  thousand  were  divided 
into  not  less  than  sixty-five  diflferent  tribes,  speaking 
almost  as  many  languages,  some  reduced  to  as  few  as 
thirty  in  a  tribe,  while  the  largest  number  did  not  ex- 
ceed thirty  thousand  in  any  one  tribe.  What  a  diffi- 
culty does  this  single  circumstance  present  in  the  way 
of  their  conversion  !  And  how  hopeless  must  their  case 
have  appeared  to  all  who  looked  at  them  merely  with 
the  eye  of  human  reason  !  But  the  faith  of  the  Chris- 
tian  surveyed  them  with  very  different  feelings,  and 
prompted  him  to  adopt  measures  for  their  melioration 
and  salvation. 

Though  each  tribe  may  have  some  religious  notions 
and  customs,  as  well  as  modes  of  life,  peculiar  to  itself, 
yet  in  the  general  outline  o*"  heathen  superstitions  and 
manner  of  savage  life  they  all  agree ;  and  hence  a  ge- 
neral description  of  these  things  may  answer  the  purpose 
of  conveying  an  accurate  idea  of  their  character  and 
religious  and  social  condition. 
3 


1820.]  METHODIST  EPISCOPAL   OHOKCH.  161 

Though  moBt  Of  them  believe  in  one  supremely 
good  Spirit,  whom  they  caU  Ke-sha-Mweto.  yrt 
as  theythmfc  he  is  goodness  itself,  they  conclude  he 
can  do  no  evil,  and  therefore  they  neither  fear  nor  offer 
to  Inm  any  propiUatory  sacrifice.  To  the  evil  spirit, 
who  IS  called  Mahche-Muneto,  they  offer  sacrifices, 

hL  w>alh"'      ""'  •"*'•''  "'^'  '"""y  ■"'^y  ^PP*"^ 

In  atldition  to  these  two  great  and  pwerful  beings 
they  beheve  m  the  existence  of  a  multitude  of  suboil^ 
na,e  deities,  who  are  distinguished  by  the  simple  name 
of  Mnneo.     These  are,  Uke  the  gods  of  the  ancient 
l.ea  hen,  local  deities,  who  have  their  abodes  m  cav^ 
of  the  earth,  m  great  waterfalls,  in  laige  and  dangerous 
mm  and  lakes,  which,  together  with  whatever  natural 
phenomenon  is  calculated  to  inspire  the  mind  with  awe 
anti  dread,  are  under  the  control  of  these  inferior  and 
local  deities.     To  the  care  of  these  subordinatfgl, he 
™ls  and  Mies  of  individuals  are  committed,  f  nd  it  is 

(0  which  of   he  Munetos  his  destinies  are  to  be  con- 
«Sned,  that  he  may  render  to  it  the  proper  homage 
l-or  the  purpose  of  acquiring  this  knowledge  they  go 
hrough  a  most  painful  process  of  fasUng  and  other  ll 
Wy  aus lerities  for  several  days  in  succession,  and  when 
^*iced  by  this  means  to  great  physical  weakness,tey 
^o^ne  pcmnbed  in  sleep,  and  the  thoughts  whi^h  fl 
mugh  their  minds  m  that  state  are  interpreted  in 
h  way  as  to  lead  them  to  infer  that  either  a  bear,  a 
dee    a  snake  or  some  other  animal  is  to  be  the  rep  e- 
^mative  of  their  guardian  Muneto;  and  thenceforward 
'he  animal  selected  by  the  individual  becomes  the  ob- 


#1' 
if* 


162  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1820. 

ject  of  his  superstitious  reverence  through  all  the  vicis« 
situdes  of  his  future  roving  life.* 

But  they  have  also  their  priests,  who  hold  a  preter- 
natural intercourse  with  the  invisible  world,  and  inter- 
pret the  will  of  the  gods  unto  the  people.  These  are 
called  Paw-waws,  or  conjurors.  These  profess  to 
hold  a  correspndence  with  invisible  and  absent  spirits, 
whether  dead  or  alive,  and  teach  the  deluded  people  to 
believe  that  they  can  inflict  punishment  upon  their  ene- 
mies, even  though  at  a  great  distance  from  them — that 
they  can,  by  their  conjurations,  cure  diseases,  expel 
witches  and  wizards,  and  control  the  power  of  evil  spi- 
rits. These  conjurors  have  their  medicine-bags,  with 
which  they  perform  a  variety  of  antic  tricks,  beating 
their  ium-tum,  a  sort  of  drum,  and  singing  their  mono- 
tonous tunes  over  the  sick,  attempting  by  this  means  to 
drive  away  the  evil  spirit  and  restore  the  patient  to 
health ;  but  they  more  ftequently  increase  the  sufTer- 
mgs  or  hasten  the  dissolution  of  the  diseased  person 
than  effect  his  cure. 

In  addition  to  these  ordinary  priests  there  is  another 
order  of  a  pecuhar  character,  whose  business  is  to  guard 
the  "  Council  Fire."  This  is  kept  by  each  tribe  in  a  place 
selected  for  that  purpose,  where  an  altar,  something  in 
the  form  of  a  rude  oven,  is  erected,  and  here  the  eternal 
fire,  as  it  is  called,  is  kept  perpetually  burning.  That 
it  may  not  be  extinguished  or  desecrated  by  rude  or 

*  May  we  not  perceive  in  this  system  of  aboriginal  theo- 
logy a  semblance  of  the  Scriptural  account  of  a  good  and 
evil  spirit,  of  holy  and  unholy  angels  ?  And  have  they  not 
received  it  by  tradition,  obscured  from  one  gencralioii  to 
another,  until  it  has  degenerated  into  these  absurd  notions  of 
supreme  and  subordinate  deities,  vi'ho  preside  over  their  des- 


1820.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  163 

vulgar  hands,  four  persons,  two  males  and  two  females, 
husbands  and  their  wives,  are  appointed  as  its  guardi- 
ans.    The  wives  are  required  to  cook  and  do  the  do- 
mestic work,  while  their  husbands,  who  are  destined 
more  especially  to  the  sacred  duty  of  guarding  the 
council  fire,  are  hkewise  engaged  in  hunting  and  pro- 
viding  aU  needful  things  for  the  household.     These  four 
persons  are  relieved  from  all  secular  cares,  that  they 
may  the  more  entirely  devote  themselves  to  the  holy 
trust  confided  to  them.     In  this  priesthood  a  perpetual 
succession  is  kept  up  by  the  appointment  of  the  head 
chief  and  his  spouse,  the  former  selecting  the  husband 
and  the  latter  the  wife  of  the  survivor.     And  so  sacred 
IS  the  duty  of  guarding  the  eternal  fire  considered,  that 
death  is  inflicted  as  a  punishment  upon  him  who  vio- 
lates his  trust.* 

The  custom  of  ridding  themselves  of  the  encumbrance 
of  the  aged  and  infirm,  by  putting  an  end  to  their  life, 
is  continued  among  these  heathen  with  all  its  shocking 
barbarities.     The  following,  as  corroborative  of  the  truth 
of  this,  is  related  on  the  authority  of  the  Rev.  William 
Case,  whose  labors  among  the  Indians  of  Upper  Ca- 
nada, and  intimate  acquaintance  with  their  customs, 
entitle  him  not  only  to  credit,  but  also  to  the  thanks  of 
the  whole  Christian  community.     He  says :— "  Many 
years  since  an  aged  respectable  gentleman,  being  at  the 
head  of  the  Bay  of  auint^,  found  an  assemblage  of  In- 
dians.    On  inquiring  the  cause,  he  was  informed  that 
they  had  assembled  to  perform  one  of  theii  ceremonies. 
Out  of  respect  to  our  informant  they  permitted  him  to 

*  Here  is  another  relic  of  the  hlgh-itriesthood  amonff  the 
Jews,  and  of  the  fire  of  the  sacred  altar.  Has  th  ')een  handed 
Sown  Dy  iradition  from  their  fathers? 

3 


164 


A   HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1820. 


•If 


witness  the  scene.  They  were  ranged  in  Indian  file, 
at  the  head  of  which  was  an  aged  man,  and  next  to 
liim  a  lad,  his  son,  with  a  hatchet  in  his  hand.  They 
all  moved  slowly  until  they  arrived  at  a  place  nearly 
dry  in  the  ground.  Here  they  halted.  The  old  man 
kneeled  down.  The  son  stood  for  a  moment,  and  then 
deliberately  stepped  up  and  struck  the  tomahawk  into 
his  father's  head.  He  fell  under  the  stroke,  was  buried, 
and  the  ceremony  ended  by  drinking  freely  of  ardent 
spirits."  In  justification  of  this  inhuman  conduct,  they 
alleged  that  this  was  not  a  punishment  for  any  crime, 
but  merely  l)ecause  the  old  man  could  no  longer  follow 
them  in  their  wanderings.  So  powerfully  does  the 
delfish  principle  predominate  over  filial  love  and  obedi- 
ence. 

But  these  superstitions  are  not  the  worst  things  with 
which  the  Christian  missionary  has  to  contend.  Had 
these  heathen  been  left  in  their  native  condition,  their 
conversion  to  Christianity  might  be  effected  with  much 
more  ease.  It  is,  indeed,  lamentable  to  reflect,  that  their 
proximity  to  the  white  population,  and  their  intermin- 
gling with  them  for  purposes  of  traffic,  instead  of  bet- 
tering their  condition,  have  made  it  far  worse,  and  fur- 
nished them  with  an  argument  against  Christianity  of 
peculiar  point  and  force.  I  allude  to  the  introduction  of 
ardent  spirits  by  mercenary  traders,  to  the  custom  of  pro- 
fane swearing,  to  gambling,  and  to  those  diseases  to 
which  they  were  heretofore  strangei  s.  These  things  have 
debased  their  minds,  corrupted  their  morals,  impoverished 
their  tribes,  thinned  their  ranks,  and  hardened  them 
againsi  the  truths  of  the  gospel.  And  this  is  the  more 
to  be  lamented,  l)ecause  these  evils  have  been  superin- 
duced  by  those  who  have  called  themselves  Christianp, 


1820.]  METHODIST   EPISCOJPAI.    CHURCH.  '       165 

and  professed  to  enjoy  the  advantages  of  civilization  In 
consecjuence  of  ti.ese  tl.ings,  the  semi-civilizetl  Iiuliaas 
who  akjrt  ou.-  settlen.ents,  ami  have  intermingle.!  with' 
their  wh,te  neighbors,  are  U,e  worst,  to  whom  the  a„- 
pellauon  of  '  m,serable,  half-siarved  Indians"  mit 
appropriately  belongs-those  in  tIre  interior,  far  removed 
from  cvdized  hfe,  being  much  more  industrious,  better 
clad,  enjoy  better  health,  and  are  more  easily  cached 
by  gospel  truth.  ^  leouiew 

This  state  of  things  renders  it  imperative  for  the  mis- 
sionary, on  his  fi..t  introduction  to  these  semi-barbari- 
an, to  remove  the  objections  to  Christianity  arising 
fiom  the  corruptmg  example  of  those  professed  Chris 
tons  who  have  cheated  them,  made  them  drunk  with 
fee  waters,"  and  turned  the  edge  of  the  sword  against 
^u,m,  unt.1  they  have  been  compelled  to  seek  a  sheC 
fiom  the  hot  pursuit  of  their  enemies  by  phmgins  far- 
ther and  farther  into  the  trackless  wildernessi^leav- 
mg  their  paternal  inheritances,  and  taking  up  their 
abodes  amidst  bears  and  wolves,  and  other  wild  beasts 
0  the  forests.     To  do  this-to  meet  and  obviate  th 

d^ngt-^'Hng  between  a  cause  and  its  professed  adv.; 

cates,  between  nominal  and  real  Christians,  and  by 

«iimmati„g  betvveen  pure  Christianity  and  that  c„/- 

wl^.™;  "  "'^'"^  *■''  been  made  to  accommodate 
.Wf  to  the  debased  passions  of  men_to  do  this  effectu- 
My  and  satisfactorily  to  the  inquisitive  mind  of  an  In- 

ant    "^"^y',"  '""*  ''"done  before  an  entrance 

Invt^r.  '?  "'  ''"'"  ^^  ""=  "■""■•  He  must  be 
T,T:^!^^\  :'>"  '"'-'■'"".V  -  "onest  in  his  purpose, 
-  .  .^™  U.C  latter  must  adapt  himself,  in  his  mode  of 


166 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1820. 


1' 


I'll 

mi 


instruction,  to  the  condition,  the  intellect,  and  the  moral 
habits  of  his  pupil. 

Such  were  the  difficulties  existing  among  the  Indian 
tribes  to  whom  the  gospel  was  sent  by  the  Missionary 
Society  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  about  this 
time ;  and  yet  it  met  with  a  success  unparalleled  among 
Indian  missions. 

The  Wyandot  Indians,  among  whom  the  reforma- 
tion commenced,  called  by  the  French  Hurons,  were 
once  a  powerful  nation,  the  most  ancient  settlers  and 
proprietors  of  the  country  on  both  sides  of  the  Detroit 
river,  exicnding  north-west  as  far  as  Mackinaw.  By 
frequent  wars,  however,  and  the  destructive  influence 
of  those  vices  contracted  by  their  contiguity  to  the  white 
population,  they  had  now  become  greatly  reduced  iu 
number  and  influence,  and  were  at  this  time  settled  on 
a  reservation  of  land  in  Upper  Sandusky. 

This  reservation  was  about  nineteen  miles  in  length 
from  east  to  west,  and  twelve  in  breadth  from  north  to 
south,  containing  in  all  nearly  one  hundred  and  fifty 
thousand  acres  of  land.  This  tract,  through  which 
the  Sandusky  river  winds  its  way,  together  with  five 
miles  square  at  the  Big  Spring,  includes  all  the  soil  re- 
maining to  this  once  numerous  and  powerful  tribe, 
whose  dominion  had  extended,  in  their  more  palmy 
days,  over  such  a  vast  region  of  country.  Their  chief 
settlement,  where  the  mission  was  commenced,  and  the 
mission  premises  have  been  established,  is  about  four 
hundred  and  seventy  miles  north  of  Columbus,  the 
capital  of  the  state  of  Ohio. 

As  early  as  the  year  1816,  John  Steward,  a  free 
man  of  color,  bmn  and  raised  in  Powhatan  county,  in 
the  state  of  Yirgiria,  visited  these  peopic  ■?  liie  character 
8 


1820.]  METHODIST  EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  167 

of  a  Christian  teacher.     Having  been  brought  to  the 
"knowledge  of  the  truth  as  it  is  in  Jesus,"  and  become 
a  member  of  our  Church,  it  was  deeply  impressed  upon 
his  mind  that  it  was  his  duty  to  travel  somewhere  north- 
west in  search  of  some  of  the  "  lost  sheep  of  the  house 
of  Israel."    So  strong  were  his  convictions  on  this  mh- 
ject  that  he  could  have  no  rest  in  his  spirit  until  he 
yielded  obedience  to  what  he  considered  the  call  of  God. 
Unauthorized  by  any  church,  and  in  opposition  to  the 
advice  of  many  of  his  friends.  Steward  took  his  depart- 
ure from  his  "  home  and  kindred,"  and  continued  his 
course  until  he  arrived  at  Pipe  Town,  on  the  Sandusky 
river,  where  a  tribe  of  the  Delaware  Indians  dwelt. 
After  holding  a  conference  with  these  friendly  Indians, 
and,  through  an  interpreter,  delivering  to  them  a  dis- 
course on  the  subject  of  religion,  impelled  on  by  his  first 
impressions,  the  next  morning  he  bade  them  an  affec- 
tionate adieu,  and  pursued  his  journey  toward  Upper 
Sandusky,  and  soon  arrived  at  the  house  of  Mr.  Walker, 
United  States  sub-agent,  to  whom  Steward  related  his 
Christian  experience,  and  the  reasons  which  had  in- 
duced him  to  come  among  them.     Being  finally  satis- 
fied that  he  was  actuated  by  pure  motives,  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Walker,  both  of  whom  could  speak  the  Wyandot  lan- 
guage, encouraged  and  assisted  him  much  in  his  work. 
His  first  sermon  was  delivered  to  one  old  Indian  wo- 
man.   But  recollecting  that  his  Lord  and  Master  had 
preached  successfully  to  the  woman  of  Samaria  alone, 
Steward  preached  as  faithfully  to  her  as  if  there  had 
been  hundreds  present.     At  his  next  appointment,  "on 
the  morrow,"  he  had  the  satisfaction  to  find  added  to 
his  congregation  an  old  man.     To  these  he  addressed 


168 


A   HISTORY    OF   THB 


[1820. 


himself  with  such  effect  that  they  both  were  soon  con- 
verted to  the  Christian  faith. 

In  this  small  way,  and  by  these  comparatively  inef- 
ficient means,  the  work  of  reformation  began  among 
these  people  in  the  month  of  November,  1816,  and  by 
the  faithful  labors  of  Steward,  assisted  occasionally  by 
some  local  preachers,  who  took  an  interest  in  their  spi- 
ritual welfare,  before  any  regular  missionary  was  ap- 
pointed to  take  charge  of  them,  a  large  society  of  con- 
verted natives  had  been  formed,  all  zealous  for  the 
salvation  of  their  heathen  brethren.  Among  these 
were  several  influential  chiefs  of  the  nation.  Between- 
the-logsj  Mononcue,  Hicks,  and  ^cuteash,  together 
with  two  of  the  interpreters,  Pointer  and  Armstrong; 
the  first  of  whom,  Between-the-logs,  was  one  of  the 
chief  counsellors  of  the  nation,  a  man  of  vigorous  in- 
tellect, who  soon  became  an  eloquent  advocate  for  the 
Christian  cause ;  nor  was  Mononcue  much  inferior  to 
him  in  mental  strength  and  useful  labors. 

In  1819,  the  very  year  in  which  the  Missionary  So- 
ciety was  formed— a  coincidence  not  unworthy  of  notice 
—this  mission  was  taken  under  the  superintendence  of 
the  Ohio  conference,  which  held  its  session  that }  ear  in 
Cincinnati,  August  the  7th,  and  the  Rev.  James  B. 
Finley,  who  was  appointed  to  the  Lebanon  district, 
took  the  Wyandot  mission  under  his  care.  At  a  quar- 
terly meeting,  held  in  Nove^iber  of  this  year,  on  Mad 
river  circuit,  forty-two  miles  from  Upper  Sandusky, 
about  sixty  of  these  native  converts  were  present,  among 
whom  were  the  four  chiefs  above  mentioned  and  the 
two  interpreters.  And  that  the  reader  may  judge  for 
himself  in  respect  to  the  genuineness  of  the  work  which 
had  been  wrought  in  the  hearts  and  Hvfts  rtf  th^oA  ngn. 


1821.j'  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  169 

pie,  I  Will  insert  the  following  account  of  the  manner  in 
which  some  of  them  related  their  Christian  experience. 
Between-the-logs  arose  first  in  the  love-feast,  and  liftin"- 
bis  eyes  to  heaven,  streaming  with  tears  of  penitence 
and  gratitude,  said— 

" '  My  dear  brethren,  I  am  happy  this  morning  .hat  the 

Great  Spmt  has  permitted  m  to  assemble  here  for  so  good 

a  purpose  as  to  worship  him,  and  fc>  strengthen  the  cords 

»™»d  friendship.     This  is  the  first  meeting  of  the 

■hren,  I  am  happy  that  we,  who  have  been  so  long  time 
apart,  and  enemies  to  one  another,  are  come  together^! 
h..  ers,  a.  which  our  Great  Father  is  well  ;erd      p 

ZZll  '"™  "  ^-^  ^'""""^  ■»»'  »"<!  have  com- 

muted  many  great  sins  against  the  Good  Spirit  was  ad- 

g^d  God  that  I  am  yet  alive,  and  that  he  has  most  per^ 
feotly  opened  my  eyes  by  his  ministers  and  the  good  l»ok 
ndTu™  r  "?■  '"i  ^  8'^""  ■"«  help  to  forsake  them 
1 1  ZdT  ^r  *""•  ^"^  ^  f"*'  P**"  i"  -y  heart 
pnmng  to  walk;  sometimes  very  weak,  and  almost  readv 
■og-venp;  then  I  pray,  and  my  Great  Father  Team  me 

want  ™   r "  ''  "  ""'^''■"^'  "P  --J  »om°e.imes  dTwn.' 
"e    '  vou  in  T  ^'•'''^  ""''  '*'''  ^PPy'     Then  I  shaU 

po'e^^hXans^fLTe:;;-  "^""^^  '^'^  ^-' 

mUtlZV^T'"",  "*'  "■'='''•  ^ho  had  become  a 
mo.t  temp    ate  and  zealous  advocate  for  the  Christian  re- 

exTrL"'  i?rl.'^"."''I  '■"-P-^'l  -i-;  but  after 
.  a  ni..  g.atuuuu  10  liod  lor  what  he  then  f 


and 


3 


170  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1820, 

hoped  to  enjoy,  he  exhorted  his  Indian  brethren  to  be  much 
engaged  for  a  blessing,  and  enforced  his  exhortation  in 
the  following  manner :-  *  When  I  was  a  boy,  my  parents 
used  to  send  me  on  tr'-  nas,  and  sometimes  I  saw  so  many 
new  things  to  attract  my  attention,  I  would  say,  By  and 
by  I  will  ask,  until  I  would  forget  what  I  was  sent  for,  and 
have  to  go  home  without  it.  So  it  may  be  with  you.  You 
have  come  here  to  get  a  blessing,  but  if  you  do  not  ask  for 
it  you  will  have  to  go  home  //itnoui  it,  and  the  wicked  In- 
dians will  laugh  at  you  for  coming  so  far  for  nothing.  Now 
seek,  now  ask,  and  if  you  get  the  blessing  you  will  be 
happy,  and  go  home  light,  and  then  be  strong  to  resist  evil 
and  to  do  good.'  He  concluded  by  imploring  a  blessing 
upon  his  brethren. 

"  Scuteash  next  arose,  and,  with  a  smiling  and  serene 
countenance,  said,  '  I  have  been  a  great  sinner,  and  such 
a  drunkard  as  made  me  commit  many  great  sins,  and  the 
Great  Spirit  was  very  mad  with  me,  so  that  in  here' — 
pointing  to  his  breast — '  always  sick — no  sleep — no  eat — 
walk — walk — drink  whisky.  Then  I  pray  to  the  Great 
Spirit  to  help  me  to  quit  getting  drunk,  and  to  forgive  me 
all  my  sins ;  and  God  did  do  something  for  me — I  do  not 
know  from  whence  it  comes  nor  where  it  goes,  but  it  came 
all  over  me' — Here  he  cried  out,  '  Waugh  I  Waugh !'  as  if 
shocked  with  electricity — '  Now  me  no  more  sick.  Me 
sleep,  eat,  and  no  more  get  drunk — no  more  drink  whisky 
— no  more  bad  man.  Me  cry — me  meet  you  all  in  our 
Great  Father's  house,  and  be  happy  for  ever.' 

"  At  the  conclusion  of  the  love-feast  there  were  not  less 
than  three  hundred  white  people  assembled  from  the  neigh- 
boring frontier  settlements,  to  whom  Mr.  Finley  preached 
with  great  effect.  The  manifest  attention  in  the  appear- 
ance and  general  deportment  of  the  Indian  converts,  toge- 
ther with  the  preaching,  had  a  most  salutary  effect  upon 
the  audience. 
3 


1820.] 


METH0DI3T    EPISCOPAL    CHUR-^H. 


171 


"  The  next  evening,  at  the  earnest  request  of  the  natives, 
the  meeting  was  resumed.  After  an  exhortation  from  Mr. 
Finley,  Mononcue  arose  and  exhorted  his  brethren  to  look 
for  the  blessing  they  sought  now.  He  then  addressed  the 
white  brethren  as  follows  :— 

» '  Fathers  and  brethren,  I  am  happy  this  night  before 
the  Great  Spirit  that  made  all  men,  both  red,  white,  and 
black,  that  he  has  favored  us  with  good  weather  for  our 
meeting,  and  brought  us  together  that  we  may  help  one 
another  to  get  good  and  do  good.     The  Great  Spirit  has 
taught  you  and  ub  both  in  one  thing,  that  we  should  love 
one  another,  and  fear  and  obey  him.     Us  Indians  he  has 
taught  by  his  Spirit;  and  you,  white  men,  he  has  taught 
by  your  good  book,  which  is  all  one.     But  your  book 
teaches  you,  and  us  by  you,  more  plainly  than  we  were 
taught  before,  what  is  for  our  good.     To  be  sure  we  served 
our  Great  Father  sincerely,  (before  we  were  told  by  the 
good  book  the  way,)  by  our  feasts,  rattles,  and  sacrifices, 
and  dances,  which  we  now  see  were  not  all  right.     Now 
some  of  our  nation  are  trying  to  do  better ;  but  we  have 
many  hinderances,  some  of  which  I  mean  to  tell.     The 
white  men  tell  us  they  love  us,  and  we  believe  some  do, 
and  wish  us  well ;  but  a  great  many  do  not,  for  they  will 
bring  us  whisky,  which  has  bee-,  the  ruin  of  our  people. 
I  can  compare  whisky  to  nothing  but  the  devil ;   for  it 
brings  with  it  all  kinds  of  evil— it  destroys  our  happiness  ; 
It  makes  Indians  poor ;  strips  our  squaws  and  children  of 
their  clothes  and  food;  makes  us  lie,  steal,  and  kill  one 
another.     All  tht    j  and  many  other  evils  it  brings  among 
us ;  therefore  you  ought  not  to  bring  it  among  us.     Now 
vou  white  people  make  it,  you  know  its  strength  and  use, 
Indians  do  not.     Now  this  whisky  is  a  curse  to  yourselves 
-why  not  quit  making  it  ?     This  is  one  argument  used  by 
wicked  Indians  against  the  good  book ;  if  it  is  so  good, 
why  do  not  white  men  all  do  good  ?     Another  hinderance 

3 


172 


A   HISTORY   OF    THE 


[1820, 

is,  white  men  cheat  Indians,  take  away  their  money  and 
skins  for  nothing.  Now  you  tell  us  your  good  book  for- 
bids all  this  ;  why  not  then  do  what  it  tells  you  ?  then  In- 
dians do  right  too.  Again,  you  say  our  Great  Father  loves 
all  men,  white,  black,  and  red  men,  that  do  right ;  then 
why  do  you  look  at  Indians  as  below  you,  and  treat  them 
as  if  they  were  not  brothers  ?  Does  your  good  book  tell 
you  so  ?  I  am  sure  it  does  not.  Now,  brothers,  let  us  all 
do  right ;  then  our  Great  Father  will  be  pleased,  and  will 
make  us  happy  in  this  world,  and  when  we  die  then  we 
shall  all  live  together  in  his  house  above,  and  always  be 
happy.' " 

At  the  Ohio  conference,  which  was  held  this  year 
1820,  in  Chillicothe,  the  chiefs  of  the  Wyandots  pre- 
sented a  petition  to  the  conference  for  a  regular  mis- 
sionary to  be  appointed  over  them.  It  will  doubtless  be 
both  pleasing  and  edifying  to  the  reader  to  know  the 
orderly  method  by  which  the  whole  affair  of  preparing 
and  presenting  this  petition  was  conducted,  as  it  will 
show  that  these  people  were  governed  by  the  principles 
of  democracy  in  coming  to  a  final  determination  of  any 
important  question,  while  the  executive  authority  was 
confided  to  their  chief  men.  The  following  is  Mr. 
Pinley's  account  of  this  transaction  :— 

"Sunday,  16th  July,  in  the  Wyandot  council  house, 
Upper  Sandusky,  at  the  close  of  public  worship,  was  my 
last  address  to  the  Wyandots  by  the  interpreter.  'My 
friends,  and  you  chiefs  and  speakers  in  particular,  I  have 
one  word  more  to  say ;  I  expect  to  meet  our  good  old 
chiefs  and  fathers  in  the  church  at  Chillicothe  before  I 
come  to  see  you  again,  and  they  will  ask  me  how  you 
come  on  in  serving  the  Lord,  and  if  you  want  them  to  keep 
sending  you  preachers  any  longer,  to  tell  you  the  good 


1820.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  173 

word,  or  if  you  have  any  choice  in  preachers  to  come  and 
teach  you.* 

"  The  answer.—^  Our  chiefs  are  not  all  here,  and  we 
.nust  have  all  our  chiefs  and  queens  together,  and  they 
must  all  speak  their  minds,  and  then  we  will  let  the  old 
father  know.' 

"  They  appointed  to  meet  me  at  Negro  town  on  Wednes- 
day  evenmg,  on  my  return  from  Seneca  town  ;  and,  hav- 
mg  returned,  found  them  assembled  and  prepared  to  an- 
swer. On  entering  in  among  them  a  seat  was  set  in  the 
midst  of  the  room,  and  I  requested  to  take  the  seat,  which 
I  declmed ;  but  took  my  seat  in  their  circle  against  the 
wall,  and  directed  the  interpreter  to  take  the  middle  seat, 
which  was  done.  After  a  short  silence  I  spoke.  «  Dear 
friends  and  brothers,  I  am  thankful  to  find  you  all  here, 
and  am  now  prepared  to  hear  your  answer.' 

"Mononcue,  chairman  and  speaker  for  them  all  an- 
swered : —  * 

" '  We  let  our  old  father  know  that  we  have  put  the 
question  round  which  was  proposed  on  Sunday  evening  in 
the  council  house,  and  our  queens  give  their  answer  first. 

saying, 

"  •  We  thank  the  old  father  for  coming  to  see  us  so  often 
and  speaking  the  good  word  to  us,  and  we  want  him  to 
keep  coming  and  never  forsake  us  ;  and  we  let  him  know 
that  we  love  this  religion  too  well  to  give  it  up  while  we 
live,  for  we  think  it  will  go  bad  with  our  people  if  they 
quit  this  religion  ;  and  we  want  our  good  brother  Steward 
to  stay  always  among  us.  and  our  brother  Jonathan  too, 
and  to  help  us  along  as  they  have  done.  Next  we  let  the' 
old  father  know  what  our  head  chiefs  and  the  others  have 
to  say.  They  are  willing  that  the  gospel  word  should  be 
continued  among  them,  and  they  will  try  to  do  good  them- 
selves and  help  others  to  do  so  too;  but  as  for  the  other 
things  that  are  mentioned,  they  say,  We  give  it  all  over  to 


•i!' 


174  A  HISTORY  OP  THE  [1820. 

our  speakers  ;  just  what  they  say  we  agree  to  ;  they  know 
better  about  these  thii^gs  than  we  do,  and  they  may  let  the 
old  father  know  their  mind.' 

"  The  speakers  reply  for  themseUes  : — 

" '  We  thank  the  fathers  in  conference  for  sending  us 
preachers  to  help  our  brother  Steward,  and  we  desire  the 
old  father  to  keep  coming  at  least  another  year  when  his 
year  is  out ;  and  wo  want  our  brother  Armstrong  to  come 
as  often  as  he  can,  and  our  brothers  Steward  and  Jona- 
than to  stay  among  us  and  help  us  as  they  have  done ; 
and  we  hope  our  good  fathers  will  not  give  us  up  because 
so  many  of  our  people  are  wicked  and  do  wrong,  for  we 
believe  some  white  men  are  wicked  yet,  that  had  the  good 
word  preached  to  them  longer  than  our  people ;  and  our 
great  heavenly  Father  has  had  long  patience  with  us  all ; 
and  we  let  the  old  father  know  that  we,  the  speakers,  will 
not  give  over  speaking  and  telling  our  people  to  live  in 
the  right  way  ;  and  if  any  of  us  do  wrong  we  will  still  try 
to  help  him  right,  and  let  none  go  wrong ;  and  we  will  try 
to  make  our  head  chiefs  and  all  our  people  better,  and  we 
are  one  in  voice  with  our  queens,  and  we  all  join  in  giving 
thanks  to  our  good  fathers  that  care  for  our  souls,  and  are 
willing  to  help  our  people  ;  and  we  want  them  all  to  pray 
for  us,  and  we  will  pray  for  them,  and  we  hope  our  great 
heavenly  Father  will  bless  us  all,  and  this  is  the  last.' " 

Their  request  was  granted,  and  Moses  Hinkle,  senior, 
was  appointed  a  missionary  to  Upper  Sandusky.  IJeiiig 
aided  and  encouraged  by  so  many  influential  chiefs, 
and  others  of  the  tribe  who  had  embraced  the  Christian 
faith,  the  missionary  entered  upon  his  work  with  a  fair 
prospect  of  success ;  nor  was  he  disappointed  in  his  ex- 
pectationg,  though  it  required  nmch  labor  and  skill  to 
bring  them  into  gospel  order,  according  to  our  discipli- 
nary regulations. 
3 


\ii 


1820.] 


METHODIST  EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


175 


While  these  prospects  were  looming  up  before  us  in 
this  and  some  other  places,  the  Church  in  the  city  of 
New- York  was  convulsed  by  an  eruption  which  had 
been  secretly  wor/an^,  and  sometimes  venting  itself  in 
low  murmurings  and  disputings,  for  a  considerable  time 
before  it  broke  forth  in  the  manner  now  to  be  described. 
It  would  doubtless  be  tedious,  and  probably  uninterest- 
ing to  the  reader,  for  me  to  enter  into  a  minute  detail 
of  all  the  circumstances  which  led  finally  to  a  secession 
of  a  traveling  preacher  and  upward  of  three  hundred 
members,  including  three  trustees  and  quite  a  number 
of  class-leaders. 

In  contests  of  this  character  there  is  generally  more 
or  less  of  blame  on  both  sides  in  respect  to  the  manner 
in  which  the  controversy  is  conducted,  while  only  one 
can  be  right  in  regard  to  the  main  principle  contended 
for,  or  as  it  respects  the  measures  and  things  to  be  sus- 
tained or  sacrificed.  And  that  in  the  discussions  whicli 
arose  on  {he  present  occasion  there  were  hasty  expres- 
sions and  precipitate  measures  on  the  one  side  as  well 
as  the  other,  I  have  good  reason  to  know,  while  I  am 
equally  well  convinced  that  the  seceders  themselves  liad 
no  just  cau&e  for  their  complaints,  and  the  means  which 
they  employed  to  accomplish  their  ends. 

The  origin  of  the  difficulty  may  be  traced  to  the  re- 
l)iiilding  of  John-street  church,  in  the  year  1817, 
although  long  prior  to  this  there  had  apjiearcd  a  jealousy 
between  the  up-town  and  down-town  people,  and  more 
particularly  Ixjtween  the  east  and  west  portions  of  the 
city.  But  the  manner  in  which  this  church  was  re- 
edified,  being  a  little  more  neat  and  costly  than  the 
other  churches  in  the  city,  furnished  a  plau^'ble  oppor- 
tunity, for  those  who  seemed  to  want  one,  to  censure 

3 


176 


A    flMTORV   OF  THI 


[1820. 


tlui  roiuluct  of  (lu<  truMtecs  ami  those  prcacliers  who  (a- 
vonul  ihoir  piiui  of  building,  atxi  thuM  the  Hpiril  of 
<liH(ont«nt  jiinoti|(  the  niombeiH  of  the  ( 'hurch  wuh  much 
iiicKMiHcd.  Uiiliappiiy  for  tho  peace  of  the  Church,  tho 
umletuuitontH  w«5ro  atreug^theneci  in  their  oppoHition  at 
llie  Ih-Ht  by  at  least  one  preacher,  who  made  no  hc- 
civi  of  his  (hHsatisfiiction  at  the  nieasurcB  which  had 
been  pursued  in  relation  to  tlio  Jolni-Htroet  church,  and 
other  n»atU«i-M  connected  with  the  administration  of  dis- 
cipline. 

These  (lungs  continued  to  distract  ihe  councils  of  the 
Cliurch,  and  to  disturb  its  jKMice  and  harmony  more 
and  more,  until  tho  session  of  tho  New-York  conference 
in  1820,  when  the  conference  adojHetl  measures  to  re- 
move, if  possible,  tho  source  of  the  difficulties,  by  advis- 
ing our  (UM.ple  to  petition  the  state  legislature  for  such 
un  act  of  inc()r|»ora(ion  as  sliouid  "  recognize  the  j)e- 
<uliari(ies  of  our  form  of  clmrch  government,"  and 
liicreby  protect  the  administratora  of  discipline  in  tlieir 
ecclt'siasiicai  rights  and  privileges.  Though  the  con- 
fcrence  meant  nothing  more  than  tho  njmoval  of  legal 
iNuriers,  which  they  then  thought  existed,  out  of  the 
way,  yet  the  dissatislied  party  seized  hold  of  this  cir- 
cumslanct^  with  jMYuliar  avidity,  and  made  it  subserve 
their  purposes  by  raising  the  cry  of  "  legal  establish- 
ment," an  ♦' attempt  to  cimmco  the  people  by  civil  laws," 
dtc,  «kc.  'I'bough  all  this  was  but  idh;  gossip,  yet  it 
had  its  cirect  in  raising  a  prejudice  in  the  minds  of 
many  sincere  members  of  our  C^burch,  and  induced 
them  to  Ulieve  that  their  preachers  were  adopting  mea- 
sures  to  enslave  them,  or  to  deprive  them  of  their  just 
rights  and  privileges. 

It  is  believed  that  the  measures  of  the  conference, 


1820.]  MKTHOniST    KPWCOPAI.    CHURCH.  I77 

though  well  meant,  were  unnecessary,  even  for  the 
aumnmontof  the  end  pr„p™e<l,  a,  »ul««,uent  ex,«ri! 
ence  lian  proved  that  the  constitutions,  both  of  the 
general  and  state  Rovernmen^  amply  secure  u,  all  de! 
nominations  the  full  er,joymem  of  all  their  peculiarities 
and  the  free  and  unrestrained  exercise  of  their  discinli-' 
nary  regulations,  provide.1  they  behave  as  peaceable 
al.ze„s,  and  ,lo  not  infract  any  law  of  the  land     This 
prmcple  has  been  setUed  by  the  highest  tribunal,  of 
JUHt.cc,  and  therefore  no  special  act  is  necessary  to  re- 
mc.™  any  legal  barrier  out  of  the  way  of  the  exercise 
of  -haciplme  provided  as  above,  because  aU  such  l«r- 
riers,  did   they  exist,  are   unconstitutional,  and  are 
therefore  nuU  and  void. 

'lut  this  act  of  the  New-Yorit  conference,  perfectly 
mnocont  .„  itself,  and  which  was  never  ca^rwt  o 
^fct,  lurnished  a  plausible  pretext  to  the  discontented 
party,  und  was  im-d  with  admirable  effect  in  raising  a 
pjudioe  against  the  constituted  authorities  of  !he 
'hurch.  It  Hnally  ended,  as  before  remarked,  in  the 
™n  of  a  preacher,  William  M.  SlillJu,  and 
K.,.t  three  hundred  members  of  the  Church,  some  of 

IZJ'ZrV^  '""ff  «'""*"?  ''"'1  considerable  in- 
fluence. I'hcy  formed  themselves  inu,  an  independent 
00  .KreRation,  a<lopting  the  substance  of  our  genera 
rule,  for  their  government,  and  our  doc'rines  as  articles 
lei'  ''f  "'^""f ,"'  "•«  «""«  time  an  attachment  ,o 
t  TT7  T'*'  °''P""^^S  "-e  g.«pel,  and,  draw- 

f!Lt  ?  ,'*'"  '"  "^""^  P""'""'  of  'he  country, 

fo  ...e.I  an  annual  conference,  made  up  chiefly-for  I 

W  eve  no  traveling  preacher  joined  them  except  Still. 

xhLl  T^'T'  """^  "^-^  ^ho  had  been 

nhorter.  m  our  Church.    Their  itinerancy,  however, 

12  8 


178 


A    HISTORV    or    THE 


[1820. 

was  of  short  duration,  for  those  who  seceded  in  the  city 
of  New- York  soon  settled  down  upon  the  Congrega- 
tional plan  of  church  government,  allowing  even  the 
females  a  voice  in  all  matters  of  administration. 

As  it  will  not  be  necessary  to  advert  to  these  things 
again,  except  incidentally,  it  is  proper  to  remark  here, 
that  most  of  those  who  left  us  at  that  time  have  since 
returned  to  the  church  of  their  first  love.  Having  suf- 
ficiently tested  the  quality  of  the  "  new  wine"  to  find  ii 
unsavory,  and  becoming  restiff  under  their  new  regi 
men,  they  made  application  to  he  restored  to  the  privi 
lege  of  drinking  again  the  "old  wine/'  and  to  the 
government  from  which  they  had  expatriated  them- 
selves. Some  afterward  joined  the  "Reformer,"  im- 
properly so  called,  and  a  few  only  of  those  who  seceded 
remain  attached  to  Stillwell.  Two  out  of  the  three 
trustees  who  left  us,  morit  of  the  class-leaders,  together 
with  their  members,  have  been,  at  their  own  request, 
restored  to  their  former  fellowship,  in  a  way  equally 
satisfactory  to  all  concerned.  Mr.  Stillwell,  however, 
remains  over  a  congregation,  made  xip  chiefly  of  those 
who  have  been  gathered  in  since  the  secession,  and,  so 
far  as  they  may  promote  "  the  common  salvation,"  we 
wish  them  success. 

Notwithstanding  these  difficulties  occurred  in  the  city 
of  New- York  and  a  few  other  places  which  were  af- 
fected by  these  movements,  by  which  many  a  sincere 
heart  was  made  to  palpitate  with  sorrow,  and  some  of 
our  ministers  to  suffer  a  temporary  reproach,  the  work 
of  God  was  generally  prosperous,  and  great  peace 
reigned  among  those  who  remained  unmoved  in  the 
city  of  New- York. 

It  was  no  small  satisfaction  to  the  project  jrs  and 


1820.]  METHODIST    EPISCOP'.L    CHURCH.  I79 

friends  of  our  Missionary  Society  to  find  that  their  la- 
bors were  duly  appreciated  by  their  brethren,  and  that 
the  spmt  of  missions  was  gradually  diffusing  itself 
throughout  our  ranks,  exerting  in  its  course  a  hallow- 

"JihI^  r^K- ^  ?^'  ^^"^'^'  ""^  ^^"^"^  ^«^^h  a  spirit 
0  liberality  highly  creditable  to  all  concerned.     Many 

of  the  annual  conferences  formed  themselves  into  aux- 
.aiy  societies,  and  adopted  energetic  measures  to  esta- 
bhsh  branches  throughout  their  bounds,  with  a  view  to 
suoply  the  pecuniary  means  needful  to  support  those 
men  of  God  who  volunteered  their  services  for  the  sal- 
vation of  men.  Numerous  testimonies  in  favor  of  these 
measures  sent  to  the  managers  to  cheer  them  on  the 
way,  might  easily  be  adduced  ;  but  I  shall  content  my- 
self with  inserting  the  following  from  the  R^v.  Thomas 
L.  Douglass,  of  the  Tennessee  conference ;-~ 

"The  plan,"  he  remarks,  "proposed  in  the  Address  of 
the  Missionary  Society  of  the  Methodist  Episconal  Church 
places  things  on  very  advantageous  ground.  The  men  to  be' 
aided  and  sanctioned  as  missionaries  are  to  be  approved  bv 
our  annual  conferences,  and  to  act  under  ui.  arection  of 
our  bishops.  Men  who,  renouncing  ease  and  worldly 
prospects,  devoted  to  God  and  his  Church,  and  qualified 

wJ-f  ?  V  '"^  *^"""^**"^  P^^^^P^  ^i»h  example 
h  y  will  plant  the  standard  of  Immanuel,  and  ditfuse  light 
to  thousands  m  regions  where  darkness  now  reigns  O' 
comd  our  venerable  father,  Bishop  Asbury,  the  apos'tle  of 
America,  have  wune.sed  such  a  plan  matured  and  carried 
MO  operation  by  nis  so.,  in  the  gospel,  his  great  soul 
J>ust  nave  felt  such  r.:ui.,  .hat,  like  Simeon,  he  would 
.hav  exclaimed,  W.  ...  lettest  thou  thy  servant  depart 
"^ peace!     Admirable  system  !     The  strength  of  Jehovah 

3 


180 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1820 


must  be  felt  by  the  powers  of  darkness  in  the  operation  of 
such  a  plan. 

"  I  think  the  publication  of  the  Methodist  Magazine  and 
the  establishment  of  the  Missionary  Society,  both  ingrafted 
on  the  old  itinerant  missionary  plan,  are  calculated  to  im- 
part such  energy  and  spirit  to  the  whole  connection,  that 
we  shall  not  only  keep  up  the  life  and  power  of  religion 
where  it  is  already  planted,  but  renewed  exertion  and  un- 
equalled success,  smce  the  apostolic  age,  in  saving  souls 
from  death,  will  be  the  resulting  consequences. 

"  Nashville  is  certainly  the  most  central  as  well  as  the 
most  populous  tovvn  within  the  limits  of  this  conference, 
and  therefore  ought  to  be  the  place  for  the  location  of  an 
auxiliary  society,  which  I  shall  use  my  endeavors  to 
establish  as  soon  as  possible." 

Events  hitve  verified  the  truth  of  these  anticipations 
respecting  the  blessed  results  of  this  society.  An  en- 
lightened zeal  distinguished  the  conduct  of  those  who 
entered  the  most  heartily  into  the  missionary  work,  and 
the  spirit  of  revival  pervaded  many  portions  of  the 
Church  during  this  and  succeeding  years.  An  auxi- 
liary missionary  society  had  been  formed  in  Lynn, 
Mass.,  and  the  Rev.  J.  A.  Merrill,  who  was  appointed 
by  the  bishop  as  a  missionary  in  the  bounds  of  the 
New-England  conference,  went  to  the  upper  Coos, 
along  the  upper  waters  of  the  Connecticut  river,  a  tract 
of  country  almost  entirely  destitute  of  the  gospel.  Grod 
accompanied  his  labors  with  the  energies  of  the  Holy 
Spirit,  so  that  many  sinnris  w«re  awakened  and 
brought  to  the  knowledge  of  the  truth.  He  extended  his 
labors  into  Vermont,  some  parts  of  New-Hampshire, 
and  Maine,  and  everywhere  found  a  people  eager  to 
hear  the  word.  The  following  extract  from  one  of  his 
letters  will  show  the  extent  and  effect  of  his  labors : — 
3 


1820.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  181 

"  Since  my  last  communication  I  have  made  two  visits 
into  the  upper  Coos  country,  and  am  happy  to  state  that 
the  prospect  still  brightens.     In  Lunenburgh  there  is  a 
gracious  work  of  religion.     I  have  attended  a  number  of 
meetings  in  that  place,  and  the  power  of  God  was  evi- 
dently manifested  among  the  people.     The  tears  and  sighs 
of  mourners  clearly  discovered  that  the  word  was  not  de- 
livered in  vain.     At  one  time  nearly  the  whole  assembly 
rose  and  requested  prayers,  and  after  the  congregation  was 
dismissed  a  number  of  mourning  and  weeping  souls  tar- 
ried, and  still  desired  we  should  pray  for  them.     They 
readily  prostrated  themselves  at   the  foot  of  the  cross, 
while  our  prayers  were  offered  to  God  in  their  behalf! 
Several  have  professed  faith  in  the  Lord  Jesus,  and  others 
are  still  struggling  for  deliverance. 

"  There  is  a  good  work  in  the  Congregational  society 
in  this  town.  At  a  meeting  not  long  since,  the  preacher, 
after  giving  an  invitation  to  the  people  to  rise  to  be  prayed 
for,  and  counting  forty,  urged  the  importance  of  their 
kneeling,  from  the  example  of  Christ  and  the  apostles ; 
he  then  kneeled,  and  was  joined  in  this  Scriptural  and 
rational  act  by  nearly  all  the  congregation. 

"  About  one  hundred  have  been  added  to  the  societies 
on  Stratford  circuit  since  the  last  conference,  and  perhaps 
more  than  that  number  on  Landaff  circuit. 

"  I  have  made  a  tour  of  about  five  weeks  into  Maine ; 
preached  in  the  towns  of  Shelbourn,  Rumford,  Bethel. 
Livermore,  Augusta,  Sidney,  Gardner,  Litchfield,  and  Vi 
enna.  In  some  of  these  towns  I  preached  four  and  five 
times,  and  have  reason  to  thitik  the  labor  will  not  be  lost. 
The  prospect  in  several  toAvns  is  good  ;~in  Vienna  about 
sixty  have  experienced  religion  of  late,  and  the  attention 
in  most  of  these  places  is  considerable. 

"You  observe  in  your  letter  that  several  wished   to 
know  how  many  miles  I  have  traveled  and  how  many  ser- 

% 


182 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1820. 


mons  I  have  preached  since  my  appointment.  I  am  not 
much  in  favor  of  this  practice,  generally ;  but  as  it  is  the 
wish  of  m)''  friends,  and  has  been  a  practice  among  mis- 
sionaries, I  shall  here  state,  for  the  satisfaction  of  the 
society,  that  I  have  visited  and  preached  in  seventy  towns, 
traveled  three  thousand  six  hundred  and  seventy  miles, 
(in  about  eight  months,)  and  preached  two  hundred  and 
forty  sermons ;  but  how  many  families  I  have  visited  I 
cannot  tell." 


In  the  town  of  Bristol,  R.  I.,  there  was  a  gracious 
work  of  God.  The  following  particulars  respecting  the 
commencement  and  progress  of  Methodism  in  this 
place  will  doubtless  be  interesting  to  the  reader.  About 
the  year  1791  a  sea  captain,  a  citizen  of  Bristol,  was 
brought  to  the  saving  knowledge  of  the  truth  under 
Methodist  preaching  in  the  city  of  New- York.  On  his 
return  to  his  native  place  he  made  known  to  some  of 
his  neighbors  what  God  had  done  for  his  soul.  Though 
many  who  heard  these  things  treated  them  with  con- 
tempt, others  believed  his  testimony  and  recei  ed  it 
with  joy.  Being  encouraged  by  these,  the  captain, 
whose  heart  burned  with  love  to  the  souls  of  his  fellow- 
men,  invited  the  Methodist  preachers  to  visit  Bristol ; 
and  though  much  opposition  was  manifested  by  some, 
yet  others  received  the  word  with  joyful  and  believing 
hearts,  and  a  society  was  soon  formed,  consisting  of 
eighteen  persons.  This  was  the  beginning  of  Method- 
ism in  that  place,  and  the  society  gradually  increased 
in  numbers  and  strength,  so  that  in  1805  they  were 
enabled  to  build  a  commodiijus  house  of  worship.  In 
1812,  under  a  powerful  revival  of  religion,  about  one 
hundred  were  added  to  their  number.  This  year,  1820, 
they  were  favored  with  another  outpouring  of  the  Spirit, 
3 


1820.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


183 


during  which  not  less  than  one  hundred  and  fifty  gave 
evidence  of  a  work  of  regenerating  grace,  so  that  the 
whole  number  of  Church  members  was  four  hundred 
and  eight,  including  twenty-two  colored. 

In  Provincetown,  Massachusetts,  also,  there  was  a 
remarkable  work  of  God ;— so  powerful  was  it  in  its  ef- 
fects, and  so  rapid  in  its  progress,  that  it  changed  the 
entire  moral  aspect  of  the  place.  As  this  work  began 
while  many  of  the  men  were  absent  at  sea—the  inha- 
bitants living  chiefly  by  fishing— on  their  return  they 
were  astonished  at  the  change  which  had  taken  place ; 
but  they  soon  became  convinced  that  it  v/as  the  power 
of  God  which  had  produced  the  reformation,  and  they 
also  were  soon  made  "partakers  of  like  precious  faith," 
whole  families  rejoicing  together  "for  the  consolation!" 
About  one  hundred  and  forty  in  this  little  town  were 
brought  to  God  during  this  revival. 

Chillicothe,  Ohio,  was  also  favored  with  manifest  dis- 
plays of  the  power  and  grace  of  God.  In  1819  there 
had  been  a  revival  here  which  eventuated  in  the  addi- 
tion of  three  hundred  and  tw^enty  to  the  Church.  This 
year  the  work  continued  with  increasing  power,  and, 
among  others,  the  man  who  had  been  employed  in 
finishing  their  house  of  worship,  together  with  all  his 
family,  and  all  the  hands  employed  on  the  house,  were 
made  partakers  of  the  grace  of  life. 

Many  other  places,  too  numerous  to  mention,  were 
blessed  with  revivals,  so  that  it  may  be  said  the  Church 
very  generally  was  in  a  prosperous  condition. 

Thirty-five  preachers  were  located  this  year,  fifteen 
were  returned  supernumerary,  and  forty-two  superan- 
nuated, and  three  had  been  expelled.  Two,  John  T. 
^rqme  ^i^d  George  Burnetj  ha^  died  in  the  Loi^. 

9 


J  I 


184 


▲   HISTORY    OF    THE 


¥>,». 


Number  of  Church  members. 
Whites.  Colored.  Total. 

This  year        219,332      40,558    259,890* 
Last,  year         201,750      39,174    240,924 

Increase         17,582        1,384      18,966 


[1821, 

Preachen. 
896 
812 

"ii 


1821.  The  mission  which  had  been  commenced 
among  the  Wyandots  continued  to  prosper,  and  the 
reiwrts  of  its  success  had  a  most  happy  influence  on  the 
cause  of  religion  generally.  This  year  the  Rev.  James 
B.  Finley  was  appointed  to  the  superintendence  of  this 
mission.  In  addition  to  preaching  the  gospel  to  the 
adult  Indians,  he  was  instructed  to  establish  a  school 
for  the  education  of  the  children,  hoth  in  letters  and  in 
domestic  economy — to  teach  the  boys  the  art  of  agri- 
culture, and  the  girls  to  sew,  spin,  and  knit,  and  all  the 
duties  of  the  household. 

It  is  a  coincidence  worthy  of  notice,  that  about  tlie 
time  this  good  work  commenced  among  the  natives  of 
our  forests,  the  government  of  the  United  States  made 
an  appropriation  of  ten  thousand  dollars  annually  for 
the  support  of  native  schools,  in  which  it  was  ordered 
that  the  children  should  be  taught  the  arts  of  civilized 
life,  as  well  as  to  read,  write,  and  keep  accounts.  This 
annuity  was  to  be  divided  among  the  several  schools 
which  might  be  established  among  the  aboriginal  tribes 
by  mission£:ry  societies,  and  the  Wyandot  school  re- 
ceived its  quota.  To  accomplish  his  object  Mr.  Finley 
commenced  building  a  house,  which  might  serve  the 
double  purpose  of  a  house  of  worship  and  for  teaching 
the  children,  apd  likewise  inclosed  a  large  farm,  the 

*  There  is  an  error  in  the  total  number  in  the  printed 
Minutes  of  385,  the  whole  number  there  stated  being  860,275. 
3 


1821.] 


MLiHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


189 


land  having  been  granted  by  the  chiefs  to  the  mission, 
on  whi'  I  he  labored  with  his  own  hands,  for  the  pur- 
posf  of  setting  an  example  to  the  Indians,  that  they 
might  habituate  themselves  to  an  agricultural  life. 
These  movements  had  a  salutary  effect  upon  their 
physical  and  moral  condition. 

The  converted  natives  were  formed  into  classes,  and 
the  chiefs  who  embraced  Christianity  were  appointed 
leaders.  At  the  first  offer  that  was  made  to  receive 
tliem  into  class  twenty-three  came  forwai  1,  with  tears 
of  mingled  sorrow  and  joy,  desiring  to  1:  ecome  members 
of  the  Christian  church,  while  others  stood  trembling 
and  weeping,  crying  aloud,  >,  Shasus,  Ta-men-tare !" 
that  is,  "  O,  Jesus,  take  pity  on  us !»  In  this  way  the 
good  work  went  on  during  the  year. 

With  a  view  to  send  the  gospel  to  the  Creek  Indians, 
who  inhabited  a  tract  of  country  lying  within  the 
bounds  of  the  states  of  Georgia  and  Alabama,  then 
under  tl.e  chieftainship  of  M'Intosh,  the  celebrated  half- 
breed  warrior,  the  Rev.  William  Capers  undertook  a 
tour  through  the  state  of  Georgia,  to  ascertain  the  feel- 
ings of  its  citizens  toward  an  attempt  to  establish  a 
mission  among  that  tribe  of  Indians.  He  was  favora- 
bly received  by  the  people  generally,  and  the  proposed 
mission  was  viewed  with  a  fi-iendly  eye.  He  visited 
and  preached  in  the  most  populous  towns  and  villages 
in  the  state,  and  made  collections  for  the  support  of  the 
contemplated  mission,  which  was  beg  m  the  succeeding 
year. 

The  feelings  of  the  managers  of  the  Missionary  So- 
ciety, in  view  of  what  God  had  already  done  through 
their  instrumentality,  may  be  seen  by  the  following 

extrafvt  from  their  third  annual  report : 

3 


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Sciences 
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(716)  873-4503 


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A^ 


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186 


A   HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1821 


"  It  is  now  only  about  three  years  since  this  society 
commenced  its  operations.     Combining  so  large  a  field  of 
labor,  and  comprehending  in  its  plans  ao  large  a  circle,  as 
the  whole  of  the  Methodist  conferences  in  the  United 
States,  it  was  but  reasonable  to  expect  that  its  progress 
would  be  slow;  but  it  has  been  sure.     Time  and  patient 
perseverance  are  necessary  to  set  so  many  wheels  in  mo- 
tion, to  communicate  life  and  vigor  to  each,  and  so  to 
direct  the  movements  of  the  whole  as  to  produce  a  simul- 
taneous and  harmonious  co-operation.     But,  blessed  be  the 
God  of  missions !  the  God  of  Wesley  and  Whitefield— 
those  eminent  missionaries  of  the  old  world — who  inspired 
them  with  sufficient  energy  to  set  the  mighty  machine  in 
motion— of  Asbury  and  Coke,  who  gave  it  such  an  impulse 
in  the  new  world— blessed  be  his  holy  name  for  ever,  that 
he  hath  so  far  given  success  to  the  experiment.     Already 
the  impulse  is  felt  more  or  less  strongly  from  the  centre  to 
the  circumference  of  our  connection.     The  mustard-seed 
first  so\.'n  about  three  years  since  has  taken  deep  root,  has 
extended  its  branches,  and  many  are  reposing  under  their 
shadow.     Young  branches  are  shooting  forth  in  various 
directions,  and,  instead  of  exhausting  the  strength  of  the 
parent  stock,  are  daily  adding  to  its  growth  and  stability. 
As  you  have  already  heard,  the  heathen  tribes   of  our 
wilderness  are  partaking  of  its  fruits. 

"  The  time,  indeed,  is  not  far  distant,  when  every  man 
who  shall  have  engaged  in  this  godlike  enterprise  will 
esteem  it  as  the  happiest  period  of  his  existence,  the  high- 
est honor  ever  conferred  upon  him,  when  he  embarked  in 
the  cause  of  missions.  The  loiterers,  those  who  have 
looked  on  with  cold  indifference,  and  with  envious  eye 
have  waited  the  doubtful  result,  will  stand  abashed,  filled 
'  with  confusion  at  their  own  supineness  ;  and  will,  if  their 
zeal  for  God  be  not  quite  extinguished,  petition  tit o  privi- 
lege to  redeem  their  lo8t  time,  by  being  permitted,  at  last, 


1821.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL  CHTOOH.  187 

to  participate  in  the  grand  work  of  conquering  the  world 
by  the  power  of  truth."  e     «  "ona 

The  work  of  God  was  generaUy  prosperous  through- 
out the  bounds  of  the  several  annual  conferences,  not- 
withstanding a  spirit  of  disaffection  was  manifesting 
Itself  in  some  places  among    a  few  restless   spirits 
Through  the  agency  of  camp  meetings  in  some  parts 
of  South  Carohna  much  good  was  done,  and  a  new  cir- 
cuit which  was  formed  in  the  neighborhood  of  Bush 
nver  was  blessed  with  an  encouraging  revival,  under 
the  labors  of  R.  L.  Edwards.    An  effort  was  also  made 
to  carry  the  gospel  into  a  new  field  in  the  south-west,  in 
what  was  called  Jackson's  Purchase,  which  embra^d 
portions  of  the  states  of  Kentucky  and  Tennessee,  and 
Lewis  Garrett  and  Hezekiah  Holland  were  apwinted 
to  this  service.     That  they  were  successful  in  their  la- 

?,  T  '  ^™'"  '^*  ^^'^  "•"'  '■^"'^  '^«fe  returned 
on  iheMmutes  for  1822one  hundred  and  forty-two  whites 
and  thirteen  colored. 

In  the  NashviUe  district  also,  through  the  agency  of 
«imp  meetings,  there  were  extensive  revivaU  of  religion 
throughout  nearly  aU  the  circuits  within  the  distril  so 
much  so  that  the  nett  increase,  after  deducting  expul- 
sions, deaths  and  removals,  was  one  thousand  three 
hundred  and  five  members.    The  writer  of  this  ac- 

^"re^ma^?::'"""^  ^'  °""^"-'  '"^  --"O- 

^hJt'^T^'"  ''^"'''  """*•  "  *«  '<««'  ■"ixod  with 
what  are  called  irregularities  or  extravagances  of  any  that 

hearts  of  sinners  has  been  regular,  powerful,  and  deep ; 
their  conversion,  or  deliverance  from  sin  and  guUt,  clea^ 

S 


188 


A    HISTORY   OP   THE 


[1821. 


and  bright ;  and  their  rejoicings  Scriptural  and  rational. 
I  think  fully  half  of  those  who  have  been  the  subjects  of 
the  work  are  young  men,  and  heads  .of  families ;  many  of 
them  among  the  most  respectable  in  the  country,  men 
of  education,  men  of  talents.     We  anticipate  help  and  use- 
fulness from  some  of  them  in  the  Lord's  vineyard.     Upon 
the  whole,  it  is  the  greatest  work,  the  most  blessed  revi- 
val, I  ever  saw.     The  whole  country,  in  some  places, 
seems  like  bowing  to  our  Immanuel ;  religion  meets  with 
very  little  that  can  be  called  opposition ;  and  many  who 
neither  profess  nor  appear  to  have  any  desire  to  get  reli- 
gion themselves,  manifest  an  uncommon  degree  of  solici- 
tude that  others  should  obtain  it,  and  express  a  high 
satisfaction  at  seeing  the  work  prosper.     May  the  Lord 
continue  to  pour  out  his  Spirit,  and  may  the  hallowed  fire 
spread,  until  all  the  inhabitants  of  the  eaith  shall  rejoice 
in  his  salvation !     To  God  be  all  the  glory !     Pray  for  us, 
dear  brethren,  that  this  year  may  be  as  the  past,  and  much 
more  abundantly.     We  look  for  it  and  expect  it.     The  dis- 
trict is  well  supplied  with  preachers,  men  of  talents,  men 
of  zeal,  and  in  the  spirit  of  the  work.     May  the  Lord 
bless  their  labors !" 

In  Carter's  Valley  circuit,  Holston  conference,  there 
were  added,  during  a  revival  that  year,  not  less  than 
three  hundred  to  the  Church. 

In  Pittsburgh,  Pa.,  the  work  of  reformation  had  been 
going  forward  without  interruption  for  abwut  eighteen 
months,  during  which  time  not  less  than  five  hundred 
had  been  added  to  the  Church,  of  whom  about  two 
hundred  and  sixty  had  beeji  received  in  the  course  of 
six  months.  The  writer  of  this  account  of  the  work 
of  God  in  Pittsburgh,  the  Rev.  Samuel  Davis,  who  was 
at  that  time  stationed  there,  closes  his  narrative  in  the 
following  words : — 


1821.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  189 

"  To  those  who  have  been  conversant  with  the  history 
of  Methodism  in  this  place  from  its  rise,  and  who,  with 
Uvely  interest,  have  marked  its  progress  down  to  the  pre- 
sent, the  retrospect  must  afford  matter  for  the  liveUest 
feehngs  of  gratitude  to  God.     Yea,  when  they  look  back 
but  a  few  years,  and  compare  what  they  then  were  with 
what  they  are  now,  their  souls,  in  pleasing  astonishment, 
must  cry  out, '  What  hath  the  Lord  wrought !'    When  they 
consider  that,  about  ten  or  twelve  years  ago,  an  apartment 
in  ?.  pnvate  house  was  sufficient  to  contain  the  society 
and  all  who  chose  to  assemble  with  them  to  hear  the  word 
preached;  and  that  now  that  little  society  has  swelled  to 
a  church  of  near  seven  hundred  members,  possessing  two 
meeung-houses,  (one  of  which  is  large,)  which  are  well 
filled,  on  sabbath  evenings  especially,  with  serious  and 
attentive  hearers-a  review  of  these  circumstances  con- 
strams  them  to  acknowledge  that  .1  is  indeed  '  the  Lord's 
doings,   and  marvelous  in  thei.  eyes,'~*that   they  who 
were  not  a  people  should  become  the  people  of  the  Lord.' 
'  The  Lord  reigneth  !    Let  the  earth  rejoice.' " 

In  some  portions  of  North  Carolina  the  camp  meet- 
ings were  rendered  a  great  blessirg  to  the  people.    In 
the  town  of  HiUsborough,  where  the  Methodists  had 
been  but^httle  known,  having  only  two  Church  mem- 
bers m  the  place,  there  was  a  society  of  forty  raised  up 
as  the  fruit  of  one  of  these  meetings,  and  they  immedi- 
ately adopted  measures  for  erecting  a  house  of  worship 
much  to  the  gratification  of  the  people  of  Hillsborough! 
Other  places  shared  largely  in  the  blessed  effects  of 
these  revivals,  and  upward  of  three  hundred  were  added 
to  the  several  societies  in  that  region  of  country,  besides 
a  number  who  connected  themselves  with  other  deno- 
minations. 

In  the  more  northern  conferences  also  the  work  of 

3 


190 


A   HISTORY    OP   THB 


[1831. 


God  was  prosperous.  In  the  New-Hampshire  district, 
in  New-Haven,  Conn.,  Providence,  R.  I.,  New-London 
district,  Wellfleet,  New-Windsor,  and  Rhinebeck  circuits, 
the  Lord  poured  out  his  Spirit,  and  blessed  the  labor  of 
his  servants  in  the  conversion  of  many  sinners  and  the 
sanctiflcation  of  believers. 

In  1819  Alabama  was  admitted  as  a  state  into  the 
American  confederacy.  It  had  been  filling  up,  like  the 
other  territories  in  the  west  and  south-west,  with  inha- 
bitants from  Europe  and  the  older  states  in  the  Union, 
most  of  whom  were  destitute  of  the  ordinances  of  Chris- 
tianity. Into  this  country  the  Methodist  itinerants  had 
penetrated,  and  succeeded  in  forming  circuits  and  esta- 
blishing societies  among  the  scattered  population.  This 
year,  as  the  following  account  will  show,  there  were 
encouraging  revivals  of  religion  in  many  places  in  that 
part  jf  the  country.  The  presiding  elder,  the  Rev. 
Thomas  Grifiin,  writes  as  follows : — 

"  At  a  camp  meeting  held  on  the  Cth  of  July  last,  on 
Pearl  river,  a  few  miles  from  Monticello,  the  congregation 
was  largo  and  attentive,  many  were  awakened  to  a  sense 
of  their  need  of  Christ,  and  live  or  six  gave  evidence  of  a 
change  of  heart. 

"On  the  20th  we  held  another  meethrr  on  the  river 
Chickasawhay,  »bout  fifty  miles  from  the  .own  of  Mobile, 
whore  we  have  a  large,  flourishing  society.  There  were 
two  traveling  and  four  local  preachers,  and  one  Presbyte- 
rian minister  at  this  meeting.  On  Friday  and  Saturday 
the  Lord  favored  us  with  a  solemn  sense  of  his  presence. 
Sinners  were  struok  with  awe,  and  stood  with  respectful 
silence,  while  believers  rejoiced  in  God  their  Saviour.  On 
sabbath  we  administered  the  Lord's  supper.  All  were 
solemn  as  night.    The  word  of  God  was  heard  with  great 

d 


1821.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  191 

attention,  and  I  believe  much  good  was  done.    About  ten 
professed  justifying  grace. 

"On  the  27th  of  July  we  held  another  meeting,  about 
thirty  miles  from  St.  Stephen's,  near  the  Tombeckbee  and 
Alabama  rivers.  Though  the  principal  part  of  the  people 
were  irreligious,  yet  they  behaved  with  great  order  and 
decorum,  and  five  or  six  professed  to  be  converted. 

"On  the  2d  of  August  we  commenced  a  camp  meeting 
on  the  banks  of  the  Alabama  river,  thirty  miles  below  the 
town  of  Cahawba,  the  seat  of  government  for  this  state. 
From  the  paucity  of  the  inhabitants,  and  the  affliction  many 
were  suffering  from  a  prevailing  fever,  there  were  not 
many  that  attended  this  meeting.  Some  disorder  was  wit- 
nessed ;  but  He  that  commanded  the  boisterous  winds  to 
be  still  appeared  in  our  behalf,  and  before  the  exercises 
closed  some  were  brought,  as  we  have  reason  to  believe 
to  the  knowledge  of  the  truth.  ' 

"August  10th  another  meeting  began,  thirty  miles  above 
Cahawba,  on  the  bank  of  the  above-mentioned  river.  A 
numerous  concourse  of  people  attended,  and  much  good 
was  done.  On  Tuesday  morning  I  requested  all  who  had 
obtamed  an  evidence  of  their  conversion  to  God  to  come 
forward  to  the  altar,  when  thirty-seven  presemed  them, 
selves.  The  last  two  meetings  were  held  in  a  forest,  and 
the  Indians  were  fishing  in  the  river  while  we  were 
preaching  and  praying ;  the  bears  were  ravaging  the  corn- 
fields, and  the  wolf  and  tiger  were  howling  and  screaming 
in  the  very  woods  in  the  neighborhcod  of  our  meeting. 

"  These  accounts  may  seem  unimportant  to  those  who 
are  accustomed  to  more  numerous  congregations,  and  who 
bave  the  privilege  of  assembling  in  convenient  houses  ;  but 
to  us,  M^ho  are  struggling  with  many  difficulties  in  this 
newly  settled  country,  it  is  hi|^y  gratifying,  and  fills  us 
with  a  pleasing  hope  of  yet  seeing  the  desert  blossom  as 
the  rose" 

8 


192 


A    HI8V0RY    OF    THE 


[1821. 


Fifty  preachers  were  located  this  year,  twenty-two 
returned  supernumerary,  fifty-five  superannuated,  and 
five  expelled.  Three,  Daniel  Ireland,  William  M. 
Stilwellf  and  William  Barton,  had  withdrawn,  the 
last  of  whom  joined  the  Protestant  Episcopal  Church. 
Six,  namely,  Samuel  Parker,  Charles  Dickinson, 
Archibald  Robinson,  John  Robertson,  Richard 
Emory,  and  Alpheus  Davis,  had  finished  their  course 
in  peace. 

Samuel  Parker  was  eminently  useful  in  his  day  and 
generation.  He  was  a  native  of  New- Jersey,  born  in 
1774,  of  poor  parents.  At  the  age  of  fourteen  he  was 
brought  from  darkness  to  light,  and  became  a  member 
of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  In  1805  he  entered 
the  traveling  ministry,  and  was  appointed  to  labor  in 
the  western  country.  It  soon  appeared  that  God  was 
with  him.  By  his  deep  devotion  to  the  work  of  God, 
and  his  eminent  talents  as  a  preacher  of  righteousness, 
he  acquired  the  confidence  of  his  brethren,  and  com- 
manded the  respect  of  the  community  generally.  In 
1816  he  was  appointed  the  presiding  elder  of  the  Miami 
district,  and  from  thence,  in  the  next  year,  was  trans- 
ferred to  the  Kentucky  district,  in  which  he  continued 
four  years.  In  this  station  he  was  greatly  blessed  in 
his  labors,  during  which  time  he  was  married  to  Miss 
Oletha  Tilton. 

Being  called  by  the  bishop  to  fill  an  important  post 
in  the  bounds  of  the  Mississippi  conference,  though  his 
heakh  was  evidently  declining,  he  consented  to  be  trans- 
ferred to  that  more  distant  field  of  labor.  He  soon, 
however  sunk  under  the  influence  of  disease,  and  on 
the  20th  of  December,  1819,  he  died  in  peace. 

The  Rev.  Samuel  Parker  was  a  man  of  deep  expe- 
3 


193 


1822.]  METHODIST   EMBOOPAI.    CHURCH. 

rience,  of  fervent  piety,  of  stem  integrity,  and  poBse«ed 
talents  of  the  most  useful  character  as  a  minister  of  Je- 
sus  Ctot.  tts  method  of  preaching  was  weU  calcu- 
lated to  sooth  the  mind  of  the  believer  by  the  sweet  and 

A  ^fT'^u^u'"'.  ^^P"''  a«  *«"  """o  inspire  hope 
and  h.th  in  the  broken-hearted,  penitent  sinnw.  And 
his  general  deportment  as  a  Christian  minister,  among 

«^  "'^^  "'"'  ^"^^  "^  •>"  ''"'W  inspired  such 

confidence  m  hm  wisdom  and  the  purity  of  his  motive, 

asgavehimapowerfid  influence  over  others,  and  he 
exerted  It  at  aU  times  for  their  present  and  future  wel- 
fare    Had  he  hved  to  "threescore  years  and  ten,"  no 

ui  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church ;  but  that  God  who 
8eeth  tae  end  from  the  beginning"  saw  fit  to  caU  him 
m  the  pnme  of  life  from  the  miUtant  to  the  church  tri- 
umphant, where  he  rests  from  his  labors,  and  his 
works  do  follow  him.  . 

a,^^"  ^hr  '^'f*  ^"^  ^  ''^^^' '' "  ^  'hat 
they  also  filled  up  the  measure  of  their  days  in  useful- 

ness,  and  ended  their  lives  in  the  fuU  hope  of  the  gospel. 
Number  of  Church  members. 
Whites.  Colored.  Toul.        Preacher.. 

239,087       48,059       281,146       977 
219,332       40,558       259,890       896 


This  year 
Last  year 


21,256         81 


Increase      19,755         1,501 

1822.  This  year  two  more  Indian  missions  were 
commenced,  one  among  the  Mohawks  in  Upper  Ca- 
•Bda,  and  the  other  among  the  Creeks,  caUed  the 

tod  labor,  failed  m  the  accomplishment  of  its  objects, 
perhaps  it  may  be  as  weU  to  give  the  history  of  its  corn- 
la  , 


194 


A   HISTORY   OF    THE 


[1822. 


iiiencement,  progress,  and  termination,  once  for  all,  in 
this  place. 

As  before  stated,  the  charge  of  this  mission  was  con- 
fided, by  Bishop  M'Kendree^  to  the  Rev.  William 
Capers,  of  the  South  Carolina  conference.  After  travel- 
ing extensively  through  the  state  of  Georgia,  endeavor- 
ing to  awaken  the  missionary  spirit,  and  collect  funds 
to  defray  the  expense  for  an  outfit  of  the  mission,  in  the 
month  of  August  of  this  year,  in  company  with  Colonel 
Richard  Blount,  a  pious  and  intelligent  member  of  our 
Church,  he  arrived  at  the  Creek  agency,  on  Flint  river. 
After  witnessing  some  debasing  scenes  of  amusement 
among  the  females,  and  one  of  those  Indian  plays 
which  was  conducted  with  a  rude  display  of  Indian 
dexterity,  and  daring  feats  of  ferocious  gallantry,  he 
obtained  an  introduction  to  General  M'Intosh,  the  prin- 
cipal man  of  the  nation.  As  an  instance  of  the  lordly 
bearing  of  this  chief,  who  prided  himself  for  having 
fought  the  battles  of  his  country,  as  a  general  in  the 
ranks  of  the  Indian  allies,  under  the  command  of  the 
hero  of  New-Orleans,*  may  be  mentioned  his  refusing 

*  M'Intosh  accompanied  General  Jackson  in  his  campaign 
against  the  Seminole  Indians.  In  a  more  private  interview 
with  Kennard,  another  Indian  warrior,  the  latter  related  the 
manner  in  which  the  army  was  arranged  at  the  time  the 
descent  was  made.  While  he  adverted  to  his  command  in 
one  wing  of  the  army,  his  eye  sparkled  with  conscious  pride 
at  the  recollection  of  the  honor  which  had  been  conferred 
upon  him.  "  In  the  middle,"  said  he,  "  was  General  Jack- 
son ;  on  the  right,  M'Intosh  ;  on  the  left,  me." 

This  man  was  sick  at  the  time  the  talk  was  had  with 
M'Intosh,  which,  however,  was  held  near  the  bed  on  which 
he  reposed.  As  Mr.  Capers  offered  a  dime  to  one  of  his 
children,  he  asked,  "  Is  that  little  girl  big  enough  to  go  to 
school  1"  On  beirg  informed  she  was,  he  eagerly  replied, 
3 


1822.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  I95 

to  converse  with  Mr.  Capers,  though  he  perfectly  un- 
derstood  the  English  language,  only  through  the  me- 
dium of  an  mterpreter,  assuming,  in  the  mean  time,  all 
the  etiquette  of  a  stately  prince  in  the  reception  of  an 
ambassador. 

The  interview  resulted  in  an  agreement  between  the 
parties  for  the  establishment  of  a  mission,  with  liberty 
to  use  so  much  land  only  as  should  be  found  necessary 
to  raise  provision  for  the  misdon  family,  and  for  build- 
ing the  needful  houses;  and  thr  Rev.  Isaac  Hill,  an 
od  tried,  experienced  minister  was  appointed  in  charge 
of  the  mission.     But  notwithstanding  the  fevorable  1^- 
gmnmg  of  this  laudable  attempt  to  convey  the  blessings 
of  the  gospel  to  these  heathen,  so  long  neglected  by  the 
Christian  church,  difficulties  of  a  formidable  character 
soon  made  their  appearance.     Some  of  the  chiefs,  who 
were  not  present  at  the  council  when  the  above  agree- 
ment  was  ratified,  raised  objections  against  the  enter- 
prise,  and  thus  created  so  many  jarring  sentiments  in 
the  nation,  that  for  a  time  it  was  doubted,  among  the 
friends  of  the  cause,  whether  it  was  best  to  continue  the 
ettort.    It  was,   however,  continued.    A  school  was 
opened  for  the  instruction  of  the  children,  but  the  mis- 
sionary was  forbidden,  through  the  influence  of  the 
opposing  chiefs,  to  preach  the  gospel  to  the  adult  In- 
aians.     It  was  also  strongly  suspected  that  the  United 
States  agent  lent  the  weight  of  his  influence  against 

vo?r?I''y?  °  n^^^™ '  ^"^  ^*^^"  y««  ^ome  back  and  begin 
your  school  I  will  send  four."    What  a  pity  that  a  love  of 

Sr'""^'  have  defeated  the  ben'e^o^fnfp^orec  o 
SonV  f!,^''"'!?  ''""^'•'^^^  ^^"«'«  ^«d  the  Christian 
S  in      n^  "'"'*'  '"*''•"  ^^^'  ^h't«  ™«n,  born  and  edu" 
dm  a  Christian  land,  should  have  contributed  to  i^ 


m 


3 


196 


A   HISTORY    OF  THB 


[1823. 


1  ;> 


the  prosecution  of  the  mission,  though  an  investigation 
of  his  conduct  resulted  in  his  justification  by  the  govern- 
ment of  the  United  States.  And  the  following  extract 
from  the  letter  of  instructions  which  was  sent  to  the  In- 
dian agent  will  show  that  the  officers  of  the  government 
took  a  lively  interest  in  the  objects  of  this  mission.  The 
secretary  of  war,  the  Honorable  John  C.  Calhoun^  after 
expressing  his  regret  that  any  difficulties  should  have 
arisen  between  the  missionaries  and  Colonel  Crowell, 
the  Indian  agent,  expresses  himself  in  the  following 
language : — 

"  The  president  takes  a  deep  interest  in  the  success  of 
every  effort,  the  object  of  which  is  to  improve  the  condi- 
tion of  the  Indians,  and  desires  that  every  aid  be  furnished 
by  the  Indian  agents  in  advancing  so  important  an  object ; 
and  be  trusts  that  your  conduct  will  be  such  as  to  avoid 
the  possibility  of  complaint  on  the  part  of  those  who  are 
engaged  in  this  benevolent  work.  i 

"  You  will  give  a  decided  coimtenance  and  support  to 
the  Methodist  mission,  as  well  as  to  any  other  society  that 
may  choose  to  direct  its  efforts  to  improve  the  condition 
of  the  Creek  Indians.  It  is  not  conceived  that  they  can 
have  any  just  cause  of  apprehension  against  the  privilege 
of  preaching  the  gospel  among  them ;  and  you  will  use  a 
decided  influence  with  them  to  reconcile  them  to  its  ex- 
ercise on  the  part  of  the  mission.  The  department  feels 
confident  that,  by  proper  efforts  on  your  part,  you  may  se- 
cure to  the  mission  the  right  of  preaching  among  the  In- 
dians, which  is  deemed  to  be  so  essentially  connected 
virith  the  objects  of  the  society." 

Notwithstanding  this  favorable  regard  toward  the 
mission  by  the  government  of  the  United  States,  and 
the  persevering  efforts  of  the  missionaries  themselves, 
3 


1822.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  197 

the  minion  was  destined  to  undergo  a  sad  declension 
in  Its  affairs,  and,  after  lingering  for  a  while,  was  finally 
abandoned  m  despair.     In  addition  to  the  barriers 
thrown  m  the  way  of  the  missionaries  by  the  hostile 
chiefs  and  their  partisans,  were  the  troubles  arising  out 
of  the  treaty  made  by  M'Intosh  and  his  party,  by  which 
the  lands  mcluded  in  the  chartered  limits  of  Georgia 
were  ceded  to  the  United  States,  for  the  benefit  of  fhe 
state  of  Georgia,  for  the  consideration  of  the  sum  of  four 
hundred  thousand  dollars.     This  gave  great  offence  to 
the  majority  of  the  nation,  who  affirmed  that  M'Intosh 
and  those  who  acted  with  him  executed  this  treaty  con- 
trary to  a  law  wWch  had  been  promulgated  in  the  pub- 
lic square,  and  they  arose  against  him  with  violence 
and  massacred  him  and  some  others  under  circum- 
stances of  great  barbarity.     This  threw  the  nation  into 
great  confusion,  and  exerted  a  most  deleterious  influ- 
ence upon  the  interests  of  the  mission. 

The  school,  however,  was  continued  under  all  these 
discouragements,  and  by  the  judicious  manner  in  which 
\T  ^"^"f  «^'  ^"^  the  manifest  improvement  of  the 
children,  both  in  letters  and  religion,  it  acquired  the 
confidence  and  respect  of  aU  who  made  it  an  object  of 
inquiry.    And  the  restraints  against  preaching  the  ffos- 
pe  being  removed  in  1826,  owing,  in  a  great  measure, 
to  the  interference  in  behalf  of  the  mission  by  the  United 
states  government,  the  mission  presented  a  more  flat- 
tenng  prospect,  so  that  in  1829  there  were  reported 
Beventy-one  Church  members  at  the  Asbury  station, 
namely,  two  whites,  twenty-four  Indians,  and  forty-five 
colored;   and  the  school  consisted  of  fifty  scholars. 
Under  this  state  of  things  the  friends  of  the  cause  fondly 
anticipated  a  final  triumph  over  infidelity  and  heathen 

3 


|i  IS' 


m. 


h 


193  A   HISTORY    OF    THE  [1822. 

superstilion  among  this  nation  of  Indians.  But,  alas ! 
how  often  are  all  human  expectations  blasted ! 

Such  were  the  difficulties  thrown  in  the  \,  ay  of  this 
mission,  tha*.  in  1830  it  was  entirely  abandoned.  Their 
confirmed  habits  of  intemperance,  their  predilection  for 
savage  life,  the  persevering  opposition  of  most  of  the 
chiefs  to  the  self-denying  doctrines  of  the  gospel,  toge- 
ther with  their  proximity  to  dissipated  whites,  whose 
interest  was  promoted  by  furnishing  the  Indians  with 
means  of  intoxication,  combined,  with  the  troubles  aris- 
ing out  of  the  murder  o^  M'Intosh  and  others,  to  para- 
lyze the  efforts  of  the  missionaries  and  their  friends,  and 
they  weic  reluctaiitly  compelled  to  abandon  the  enter- 
prise in  despair.  The  labor,  however,  was  not  lost; 
lasting  impressions  were  made  upon  some  minds;  and 
some  who  were  removed  to  the  west  have  been  ga- 
thered into  the  foid'of  Christ,  and  others,  who  have  been 
since  that  time  converted  to  the  Christian  faith,  have 
traced  their  fii"st  impresoions  to  the  instructions  of  "  fa- 
ther Hill"  and  his  pious  associates. 

Another  aboriginal  mission  was  commenced  this  year. 
This  was  among  the  Moha w ks  of  Upper  Canada.  They 
had  l)een  partially  civiUzed,  and  imperfectly  instructed 
in  the  Christian  religion  ;  and  yet  their  moral  aixd  re- 
ligious state  was  very  far  from  being  improt^ed. 

Tiiey  were  settled  principally  on  an  Indian  reserva- 
tion of  land,  sixty  ipiles  in  length  and  twelve  in  breadth, 
on  each  side  of  the  Grand  river.  At  the  head  of  this 
tribe  was  the  celebrated  Mohawk  chief,  Colonel  Branl, 
whose  name  carried  such  terror  into  our  frontier  ssttle- 
ments  during  the  revolutionary  war.  Soon  after  the 
teimination  of  this  severe  struggle,  chiefly  through  his 
fiohcifation.  the  Society  for  the  Promotion  of  Christian 
8 


1822.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  199 

Knowledge  adopted  measures  to  furnish  these  people 
with  Christian  instruction.    A  missionary  was  sent  to 
preach  to  them,  and  the  Gospel  of  St.  Mark  and  the 
Prayer  Book  were  translated  into  the  Mohawk  lan- 
guage, the  former  by  Colonel  Brant  himself.    But  little 
permanent  good,  however,  resulted  from  these  efforts. 
Instead  of  producing  any  radical  change  in  the  heart 
and  life  of  the  people,  they  were  merely  initiated  into 
an  observance  of  the  external  rites  and  ceremonies  of 
the  church,  while,  like  all  other  tribes  who  had  mingled 
with  the  unconverted  whites,  they  had  become  addicted 
to  intemperance  and  its  kindred  vices. 

In  this  state  they  were  when  viaited  by  a  Methodist 
missionary  this  year.     It  is  true,  that  from  the  time  the 
Methodist  itinerants  first  visited  that  country,  they  were 
in  the  habit  of  preaching  occasionally  to  these  people, 
but  with  little  apparent  effect.    As  early  as  the  year 
1801  an  Indian  youth  was  baptized  at  a  quarterly 
meeting  held  at  the  house  of  Mr.  Jones,  the  father  of 
Peter  Jones,  whose  conversion  and  labors  will  be  here- 
after noticed ;  and  it  is  remembered  well  that  when  Mr. 
Joseph  Sawyer,  the  administrator  of  the  ordinance,  con- 
cluded the  ceremony  by  prayer,  he  prayed  most  fer- 
vently that  this  youth  might  be  the  first-fruits  of  a 
harvest  of  souls  from  among  these  n&tives.     The  wife 
of  Mr.  Jones  also,  who  was  a  Mohawk  princess,  was 
baptized  about  the  same  time,  and  received  into  the 
Church  with  her  husband.     These  were  all  the  abori- 
ginal conversions  known  to  the  writer  before  the  re- 
formation of  which  we  now  speak  commenced. 

The  mission  was  begun  under  the  patronage  of  the 
Genesee  conference,  to  which  Upper  Canada  was  then 

attached,  and   Alvin  ^nvrtr  wac  or^Tx^i^t^^  *_  :._  -1 

3 


miMiV:      '•:■ 


900 


A   HISTORY  OF   THE 


[1822. 


■ft 


The  following  extracts  of  letters  received  from  brother 
Case  will  fully  explain  the  manner  in  which  this  good 
work  began  and  was  carried  forward : — 

"When  I  visited  and  preached  to  these  Indians  last 
June,  I  found  several  under  awakenings;  for  they  had 
heard  occasionally  a  sermon  from  brothers  Whitehead, 
Storey,  and  Matthews  ;  and  had  for  some  time  been  in  the 
habit  of  coming  together  it  the  house  of  T.  D.  to  hear 
prayers  in  the  Mohawk.  Several  manifested  much  con- 
cern, and  appeared  very  desirous  of  the  prayers  and  advice 
of  the  pious.  These,  with  two  youths  who  had  lately  re- 
ceived religious  impressions  at  the  Ancaster  camp  meet- 
ing, I  formed  into  a  society,  giving  charge  of  the  society 
to  brother  S.  Crawford.  His  account  of  the  progress  of 
the  revival  during  my  absence  to  conference  I  here  insert, 
from  his  letter  to  me.  We  must  beg  some  indulgence  for 
being  particular,  considering  that  the  subjects  of  this  work 
are  the  first-fruits  unto  Christ,  and  that  this  revival  may 
be  seen  in  the  native  simplicity  of  these  artless  Indians. 
Brother  C.'s  account  is  as  follows  : — 

" '  During  your  absence  to  the  conference  I  have  con- 
tinued to  meet  with  our  red  brethren  every  week,  giving 
them  public  discourses,  as  well  as  answering  their  anxious 
inquiries  concerning  the  things  of  God.  The  Lord  has 
indeed  been  gracious  to  this  people,  pouring  out  his  Holy 
Spirit  on  our  assemblies,  and  thereby  giving  the  spirit  of 
penitence,  of  prayer,  and  of  praise.  About  the  first  who 
appeared  deeply  concerned  for  their  souls  were  two  wo- 
men. One  of  them  had,  about  fourteen  years  ago,  known 
the  way  of  the  Lord,  and  had  belonged  to  our  society  in 
the  Alleghany.  Having  been  a  long  time  without  the 
means  of  grace,  she  had  lost  her  comforts  and  her  ileal  for 
God;  but  now,  being  again  stirred  up  to  return  to  the 


an<\    \\^^%nwv%^    «if«.M^*s1      A.n     ^aI. _/*    1 . 1-  _     

:riiT.-   Ts-cx.a.is.i-c   uociUi    lu    UWiCfS    UI    ^.iil    MQX   WfiO  W6r0 


WHO  were 


1822.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  20. 

inquiring  for  the  way  of  life.     The  other  was  a  woman  of 
moral  dejiortment,  and  of  respectable  standing  among  her 
nation,  but  of  great  and  painful  afflictions  :  by  a  series  of 
family  trials  ?he  had  been  borne  down  with  overwhelm- 
ing sorrows.     To  this  daughter  of  affliction  the  other  wo- 
man  gave  religious  counsel,  urging  that  if  she  would  give 
her  heart  to  the  Lord  he  would  gi .  e  comfort  to  her  mind, 
as  well  as  direct  and  support  her  in  her  worldly  troubles! 
She  listened  to  these  things  with  much  concern,  and  as 
she  went  to  the  spring  for  water  she  turned  aside  several 
times  to  pray.     At  length,  under  a  sense  of  her  unworthi- 
ness  and  sinfulness,  she  sunk  to  the  earth,  and  was  help- 
less for  some  time.     When  she  recovered  strength  she 
came  into  her  house,  and  calling  her  children  around  her, 
they  all  kneeled  down  to  pray.     While  at  prayer  a  weight 
of  power  came  on  them—the  daughter  of  fifteen  cried 
aloud  for  mercy,  and  the  mother  again  sunk  to  the  floor. 
The  daughter  soon  found  peace,  and  praised  the  Lord. 
While  the  mother  was  yet  mourning  and  praying,  the 
youngest  daughter,  not  yet  four  years  of  age,  first  kneeled 
by  her  mother,  praying :  then  coming  to  her  sister,  she 
says,  «  Onetye  ragh  a  gwogh  nos  ha  ragh  ge  hea  steage  ? 
Onetye  ragh  a  gwogh  nos  ha  ragh  ge  hea  steage  ?"  that  is, 
"  Why  don't  you  send  for  the  minister  ?  why  don't  you 
send  for  the  minister  ?"  showing  thereby  a  religious  con- 
cern and  intelligence  remarkable  for  one  of  her  age.     The 
mother  soon  after  obtained  peace.     She  with  her  children 
are  now  a  happy  family,  walking  in  the  enjoyment  of  the 
Holy  Comforter.     Thus  did  the  Lord  bring  these  sincere 
inquirers  to  the  knowledge  of  himself,  while  they  were 
alone,  calling  on  his  name. 

"*  Another  instance  of  extraordinary  blessing  among 
this  people  was  on  sabbath,  the  27th  of  July  last,  when 
one  of  our  brethren  came  to  hold  meeting  with  them, 
inuring  singing  and  prayer  there  was  such  melting  of  heart 

8 


202  A   HISTORY  OF   THE  [1822. 

and  fervency  throughout  the  assembly ; — some  trembled 
and  wept,  others  sunk  to  the  floor,  and  there  was  a  great 
cry  for  mercy  through  the  congregation.  Some  cried  in 
Messessaugah,  "  Chemenito !  Kitta  maugesse,  chemuche 
nene,"  &c. ;  that  is,  "  Great  good  Spirit !  I  am  poor  and 
evil,"  &c.  Others  in  Mohawk  prayed,  "0  Sayaner, 
souahhaah  sadoeyn  Roewaye  Jesus  Christ,  Tandakwean- 
derhek ;"  that  is,  "  O  Lord,  the  only  begotten  Son  Jesus 
Christ,  have  mercy  on  us !"  Others  were  encouraging  the 
penitents  to  cast  their  burdens  on  the  Lord.  Others  again 
were  rejoicing  over  their  converted  neighbors.  In  this 
manner  the  meeting  continued  throughout  the  day.  While 
these  exercises  were  going  on  a  little  girl  ran  home  to  call 
her  mother,  who  came  directly  over  to  the  meeting.  On 
entering  the  room  where  the  people  were  praying  she  was 
smitten  with  conviction,  and  fell  down  crying  for  mercy. 
While  in  this  distress  her  husband  was  troubled  lest  his 
wife  sLould  die,  but  was  happily  disappointed  when,  a 
few  hours  after,  her  sorrows  were  turned  into  joy,  and  she 
arose  praising  the  Lord.  From  this  time  the  husband  set 
out  to  serve  the  Lord,  and  the  next  day  he  also  found 
peace  to  his  soul,  as  I  will  hereafter  relate.  During  the 
day  several  found  the  Saviour's  love,  and  retired  with  great 
peace  and  comfort ;  while  others,  with  heavy  hearts,  wept 
and  prayed  as  they  returned  comfortless  to  their  habita- 
tions. The  next  day  I  visited  them,  when  they  welcomed 
mo  with  much  affection,  declaring  what  peace  and  happi- 
ness they  felt  since  their  late  conversion.  A  number  soon 
came  together,  among  whom  was  the  Indian  who,  the  day 
before,  was  so  concerned  for  his  wife.  His  convictions 
for  sin  appeared  deep,  and  his  mind  was  in  much  distress. 
We  joined  in  prayer  for  him ;  when  I  had  closed,  an  In- 
dian woman  prayed  i.i  Mohawk.  While  she  was  with 
great  earnestness  presenting  to  the  Lord  the  case  of  this 
broken-hearted  sinner,  the  Lord  set  hig  soul  at  liberty. 
3 


1822.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  203 

Himself  and  family  have  since  appeared  much  devoted  to 
the  service  of  the  Lord.     The  next  morning,  assisted  by 
an  interpreter,  I  again  preached  to  the  Indians.     After  the 
meetmg  observing  a  man  leaning  over  the  fence  weeping, 
I  mvited  him  to  a  neighboring  thicket,  where  I  sung  and 
prayed  with  him.     I  then  called  on  him  to  pray ;  be  be- 
gan, but  cried  aloud  for  mercy  with  much  contrition  of 
spirit;   but  his  tone  was  soon  changed  from  prayer  to 
praise.     The  work  is  spreading  into  a  number  of  families. 
Sometimes  the  parents,  sometimes  the  children,  are  first 
brought  under  concern.     Without  delay  they  fly  to  God 
by  prayer  and  generally  they  do  not  long  mourn  before 
their  souls  are  set  at  liberty.     The  change  which  has 
taken  place  among  this  people  appears  very  great,  and,  I 
doubt  not    will  do  honor  to  the  cause  of  religion,  and 
thereby  glorify  God,  who  has  promised  to  give  the  Gen- 
tiles for  the  inheritance  of  his  Son.' 

"On  my  return  from  conference  I  called  and  preached 
to  the  Mohawks,  and  have  it  on  my  plan  to  continue  to 
attend  to  them  in  my  regular  route.     After  having  ex- 
plamed  the  rules  of  society  to  them,  twenty  were  admitted 
as  members  of  society.     It  was  a  season  of  refreshing  to 
us  all.     On  the  28th  of  September  I  again  preached  to 
them.    The  crowd  was  now  such  that  they  could  not  all 
get  mto  the  house.     Their  usual  attention  and  fervor  were 
apparent,  and  near  the  conclusion  of  the  discourse  the 
hearts  of  many  were  affected,  and  they  praised  the  Lord 
fo'  his  power  and  goodness.     In  meeting  them  in  class 
they  appeared  to  be  progressing  finely,  advancing  in  the 
knowledge  and  love  of  God.     Several  who  had  been  under 
awakening,  having  now  returned  from  their  hunting,  re- 
quested to  be  received,  and  were  admitted  into  the  society 
I  he  society  now  conri  cs  of  twenty-nine  members,  three 
of  whom  are  white  persons.     We  have  also  a  sabbath 

school  of  Inrlinn  r>Tii1/1i>an    ^r«»«:_«: />.i       .  . 

..,-.« v«,  ^.wMOiBMMg  VI  aoGui  iwenty,  who 

8 


204 


A    HISTORY    OF   THE 


[182i2. 


are  learning  to  read.  Some  young  men  have  kindly  of- 
fered their  services  to  instruct  them.  This  good  work  is 
about  fifty  miles  from  the  mouth  of  the  Grand  river,  about 
six  miles  from  the  Mohawk  village,  and  four  miles  north 
of  the  great  road  leading  from  Ancaster  to  Longpoint. 
About  twelve  miles  from  the  mouth  of  the  Grand  river 
another  gracious  work  is  commenced,  among  both  Indians 
and  whites.*  About  twelve  have  found  peace  to  their 
souls,  among  whom  are  four  of  the  Delaware  tribe.  This 
awakening  first  took  place  in  the  mind  of  a  white  man— a 
notorious  sinner.  It  was  in  time  of  preaching  that  the 
power  of  God  arrested  him.  He  wept  and  trembled  like 
Belteshazzar.  After  meeting  he  came  to  me,  saying,  '  I 
don't  know  what  is  the  matter  with  me.  I  never  felt  so 
before :  I  believe  I  am  a  great  sinner,  but  I  wish  to  do 
better :  what  shall  I  do  to  be  saved  V  I  told  him  the 
Spirit  of  the  Lord  was  upon  him,  to  convince  him  of  sin, 
and  he  must  repent  and  turn  to  God.  There  is  evidently 
a  great  change  in  this  man,  who  we  hope  may  be  an  honor 
to  the  cause  of  religion  in  this  wicked  part  of  the  reserva- 
tion. The  awakening  is  prevailing  in  several  families. 
We  have  twelve  in  society  here.  In  the  townships  of 
Rainham  and  Walpole  there  are  still  good  appearances. 
Indeed,  at  most  of  my  appointments  we  have  the  presence 
and  blessing  of  the  Lord ;  so  that  our  missionary  friends 
will  have  no  occasion  to  repent  the  prayers  they  have  of- 
fered, the  h?oney  they  have  expended,  and  the  tears  they 
have  shed  in  behalf  of  the  once  miserable  and  forsaken 
sinners,  but  now  happy  and  blessed  converts,  on  the  Grand 
river.  Much  labor  is  now  necessary,  and  I  would  gladly 
have  assistance  ;  but  my  health  is  good,  and  I  would  not 
increase  expenses.     In  weariness  my  mind  is  comforted, 

*  A  small  settlement  of  white  people  on  the  Indian  lands 
here  borders  on  a  settlement  of  the  Delaware  Indians. 


[18212. 

kindly  of- 
d  work  is 
ver,  about 
iles  north 
jongpoint. 
rand  river 
;li  Indians 
a  to  their 
be.  This 
te  man—a 
r  that  the 
nbled  like 
laying,  *I 
er  felt  so 
vish  to  do 
1  him  the 
m  of  sin, 
evidently 
}  an  honor 
e  reserva- 
families. 
nships  of 
>earances. 
\  presence 
ry  friends 
Y  have  of- 
tears  they 
I  forsaken 
the  Grand 
dd  gladly 
vould  not 
iomforted, 

dian  lands 
ans. 


18^2.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  305 

and  my  soul  is  delighted  in  feeding  these  hungry  natives 
with  the  provisions  of  the  gospel.  0,  I  could  endure 
hunger,  or  sit  down  thankfully  to  their  humble  fare,  or  lie 
down  in  Indian  wigwams  all  my  life,  to  be  employed  in 
such  a  work  as  this,  and  especially  if  favored  with  such 
consolations  as  at  times  I  have  enjoyed  since  I  commenced 
my  labors  in  this  mission.  I  hope  for  ever  to  be  grateful 
for  His  mercy  in  thus  blessing  his  word  for  the  conver- 
sion of  these  poor  perishing  sinners.  Dear  sir,  a  letter  of 
instruction  and  counsel  would  be  thankfully  received.  I 
hope  I  have  an  interest  in  the  prayers  of  my  brethren. 
Farewell.  Very  affectionately  yours  in  the  gospel  of 
Christ." 

"Letter  from  the  Rev.  William  Case,  dated  Niagara,  U.  C, 

October  7,  1823. 
« In  my  letter  of  the  27th  of  August  I  mentioned  that  an 
awakening  had  taken  place  among  the  Indians  on  the 
Grand  river,  and  promised  a  more  particular  account  ol 
this  work  after  my  next  visit  among  them.     But  as  brother 
Torry  has  sent  you  a  pretty  full  account,  a  few  remarks 
will  suffice.     On  the  24th  of  September,  in  company  with 
a  religious  friend,  we  passed  into  the  woods,  and  arrived 
at  the  Indian  dwellings  about  nine  o'clock  in  the  morning, 
a  time  at  which  they  generally  hold  their  morning  devo- 
tions.    We  were  received  with  cordial  kindness,  and  the 
shell  was  blown  as  a  call  to  assemble  for  religious  service. 
Soon  the  people,  parents  and  children,  were  seen  in  all 
directions  repairing  to  the  house  of  prayer.     When  they 
arrived  they  took  their  seats  with  great  solemnity,  observ- 
ing  a  profound  silence  till  the  service  commenced.    Having 
understood  that  they  were  in  the  habit  of  singing  in  the 
Mohawk,  I  requested  them  to  sing  in  their  usual  manner, 
which  they  did  melodiously.      The  following  verse   is 
taken  from  the  hymn,  and  the  translation  into  English  is 
annexed 4 — 

9 


20A  A  HISTORY   OF  THE  [1832. 

<  0  sa  yd  ner  Talc  gwogh  sni  y^  nough 
Ne  na  yonk  high  sweagh  ad, 
Ne  o  ni  a  yak  hi  aea  ny, 
Sa  yk  ner  tea  hogh  am'yoh.' 

'  Enlighten  our  dark  aoula,  till  they 
Thy  sacred  love  embrace : 
Aaaist  our  minds  (by  nature  frail) 
With  thy  celestial  grace.' 

"  After  the  sormon  several  addressed  the  assembly  in 
the  Mchawk,  and  the  meeting  was  concluded  by  prayer 
from  one  of  the  Indians  in  his  native  tongue.  The  use  of 
ardent  spirits  appears  to  be  entirely  laid  aside,  while  the 
duties  of  religion  are  punctually  and  daily  observed.  The 
hour  of  prayer  is  sounded  by  the  blowing  of  the  shell, 
when  they  attend  for  their  morning  meetings  with  the  re- 
gularity of  their  morning  meals.  The  Indians  here  are 
very  desirous  of  obtaining  education  for  their  children,  and 
thoy  are  making  such  efforts  as  their  low  circumstances 
will  allow  :  for  this  purpose  a  school-house  is  commenced: 
a  sabbath  school  is  now  in  operation,  where  about  twenty 
children  are  taught  the  rudiments  of  reading,  and  we  are 
not  without  hope  of  seeing  a  day  school  established  for 
the  ensuing  winter.  Certainly  this  mission  has  been  at- 
tended with  the  divine  blessing  beyond  every  expectation. 
It  was  not  at  first  commenced  with  the  professed  design 
of  converting  the  natives,  (though  they  were  had  in  view,) 
but  for  the  benefit  of  the  white  inhabitants  scattered  ovei 
the  Indian  lands.  The  merciful  Lord,  however,  has  been 
pleased  to  endow  the  mission  with  abundant  grace,  and 
the  friends  of  missions  may  now  renew  their  songs  of  gra- 
titude and  joy  over  thirty  more  converted  natives  of  the 
forest,  together  with  an  equal  number  of  converts  among 
the  white  population." 

The  Cherokee  mission  was  also  comri^enced   this 
year.  The  Cherokee  Indians  inhabited  a  tract  of  country 
8 


red  ovei 


1822.]  METHODIST  EPISCOPAL  CHURCH.  207 

included  in  the  states  of  Georgia  and  North  Carolina  on 
the  east,  Alabama  on  the  west,  and  that  part  of  Tennessee 
lying  south  of  Hiwassee  and  Tennessee  rivers,  compris- 
ing not  less  than^  ten  miUions  of  acres.    These  natives 
had  been  partially  civilized ;  some  of  them  had  become 
wealthy,  possessing  domestic  cattle  in  abundance,  and 
were  thnving  agriculturists.     White  people  had  settled 
among  them,  intermarriages  had  taken  place,  so  that 
there  were  many  half-breeds  of  respectable  standing 
and  character,  who  could  speak  both  the  English  and 
Cherokee  languages,  and  many  of  the  children  were 
vvell  educated.     And  had  they  been  left  undisturbed  in 
their  possessions,  they  doubtless  would  have  risen  into  a 
wealthy,   intelligent,  religious,  and  respectable  com- 
raunity. 

The  American  Board  of  Missions  commenced  a  mis- 
sion amonr  these  people  as  early  as  1817,  which  has 
been  much  assisted  in  its  funds  by  the  government  of 
the  United  States,  and  has,  no  doubt,  exerted  a  salutary 
influence  on  the  Indian  character. 

It  was  in  the  spring  of  this  year,  at  the  request  of  a 
native  Cherokee,  by  the  name  of  Richard  Riley,  that 
the  Rev.  Richard  Neeley,  of  the  Tennessee  conference, 
visited  the  nation,  and  preached  in  the  house  of  Mr- 
Mey.    In  the  course  of  the  summer,  being  assisted  by 
the  Rev.  Robert  Boyd,  Mr.  Neeley  formed  a  society  of 
thirty-three  members,  and  Richard  Riley  was  appointed 
a  class-leader.     At  a  quarterly  meeting  which  was  held 
there  a  short  time  after,  by  the  Rev.  William  M'Mahon 
presidmg  elder  of  Huntsville  district,  the  power  of  God 
was  displayed  in  a  most  signal  manner,  during  which 
several  of  the  natives  found  peace  with  God  through 
laith  in  the  Lord  Jesus,  and  became  members  of  tho 


208 


A   HISTORY   OF    THE 


[1822. 


i'4 


Church.  Ill  December  following  the  Rev.  Andrew  J. 
Ci-awford,  who  had  been  appointed  to  the  charge  of  this 
mission,  arrived  there,  and  met  a  council  composed  of 
the  principal  men  of  the  nation,  who  approved  of  the 
mission,  and,  with  their  consent,  a  school  was  com- 
menced on  the  30th  of  that  month.  This  was  the  be- 
ginning of  the  good  work  which  terminated  in  the 
conversion  of  many  of  the  Cherokees  to  the  faith  of 
Christianity.  In  reporting  the  state  of  this  mission  to 
the  Tennessee  conference,  in  1822,  the  committee  use 
the  following  language : —   * 

"  Your  committee  look  upon  these  openings  of  Divine 
Providence  as  special  and  loud  calls  to  our  conference,  our 
superintendents,  our  ministers,  and  members  in  general,  to 
unite  their  zeal  and  exertions,  to  afford  this  destitute  peo- 
ple the  means  of  salvation.  O,  brethren !  come  up  to  the 
help  of  the  Lord  against  the  mighty.  What  has  God  al- 
ready wrought,  and  how  plain  and  simple  the  means  by 
which  he  has  performed  the  mighty  work!  Only  con- 
sider, but  two  years  ago  a  Methodist  preacher  had  never 
preached  in  this  part  of  the  Cherokee  nation.  Our  worthy 
and  pious  friend,  Mr.  Riley,  as  has  been  stated,  invited 
brothers  Neeley  and  Boyd  to  cross  the  Tennessee  river 
and  preach  at  his  house,  and  these  zealous  and  pious  young 
men,  who  had  just  been  called,  like  Elisha,  from  the 
plough  to  the  pulpit,  embraced  the  invitation,  and  flew 
upon  the  wings  of  love  to  plant  the  gospel  among  the  In- 
dians, believing  that  a  Methodist  preacher  is  never  out  of 
his  way  when  he  is  searching  for  the  lost  sheep  of  the 
house  of  Israel,  and  bringing  sinners  home  to  God.  Robert 
Boyd  is  no  more !  he  is  gone  to  his  reward ;  but  he  lives 
in  the  hearts  of  these  pious  Indians,  and  never,  no,  never, 
while  their  memory  is  left  them,  will  they  cease  to  re- 
member Robert  Boyd. 
8 


1822.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAl   OHORCH.  309 

children  can  read  the  word  of  God,  and  some  of  them  ca^ 
wme  a  tolerably  good  hand;  and  the  whole  amol  rf 
moneys  expended  does  no.  exceed  two  hundred  doll  « 
Weed,  your  committee  are  of  opinion,  that  a  great  parade 
about  miss.onao'  establishments,  and  tho  expenditure  of 
many  thousands  of  doUars  to  gi™  the  heathen  science  and 
occupation,  without  religion,  is  of  but  little  advantage  to 
Ihem.     For,  after  all  their  acquirements,  they  are  stiU  s^ 
vages  unless  their  hearts  be  changed  by  the'grace  of  God 
and  the  power  of  the  gospel,  but  this  blessed  gospel, 
which  IS  the  power  of  God  to  the  salvation  of  all  that  be- 
,wirS'"'7  r"*  '"^'"""  "^  '''""«  »fl»<"-.ees  are 

Holy  Ghost,  makes  man  a  ««,  creature,  and  fits  him  for 
m  place  m  society." 

The  success  which  attended  these  efforts  among  the 
abongin^  of  our  counuy  acted  as  a  divine  chaim  12 

not  a  htde  to  diffuse  the  spirit  of  revival,  and  to  excite 
=.  generous  liberahty  throughout  our  entire  borderr  h 
ended  also  to  silence  the  objections  of  those  who  had 

feasibiUty  of  reclaiming  the  wandering  savagej  of  our 

Besides  these  Indian  missions,  others  were  undertaken 
for  the  benefit  of  the  destitute  parts  of  the  white  settle- 
menls.  Last  year  the  Rev.  Fitch  Heed,  of  the  Genesee 
conference,  was  appointed  to  York,  (now  Toronto,)  in 

ht  T.  '  ^?*  ^-  ^•"'"^  M-  K-  S^ith  as  his 
neiper.  Their  mission  extended  into  the  settlements  in 
the  neighborhood  of  Toronto,  which,  at  that  time.  w.r. 

14  ■  o""' 


210 


A    HISTORY   OF    THE 


[1822. 


new,  poor,  and  destitute  of  the  gospel.  Some  idea  may 
be  formed  of  the  difficulties  with  which  they  had  to 
contend  in  traveling  through  particular  parts  of  the 
country,  from  the  fact  that  brother  Smith,  who  devoted 
himself  chiefly  to  the  back  settlements,  was  in  the  habit 
of  carrying  an  ax  with  him,  so  that  when  he  came  to  a 
stream  of  water  that  he  could  not  ford,  (which  was  fre- 
quently the  case,)  he  felled  a  tree  across  it,  on  which  he 
passed  over.  In  some  instances,  it  is  stated,  where  the 
trees  stood  opposite  to  each  other  on  the  banks  of  the 
creek,  and  formed  a  junction  at  the  top,  he  would  climb 
one  tree  and  descend  another,  and  thus  pass  on  to  hk 
appointments  among  this  scattered  population.  Their 
labors  were  blessed,  and  a  foundation  was  laid  for  the 
establishment  of  societies  which  have  subsequently  much 
prospered. 

When  they  first  went  among  the  people  they  found 
them  engrossed  in  the  cares  of  the  world,  desecrating 
the  sabbath  for  purposes  of  amusement,  idle  recreation, 
or  secular  labor ;  and  some  who  had  once  professed  re- 
ligion had  cast  off  the  fear  of  God,  and  were  immersed 
in  the  pleasures  of  sin.  It  was  not  long,  however,  be- 
fore the  word  took  such  effect  that  the  houses  were 
crowded  with  attentive  hearers.  The  sabbath  espe- 
cially, instead  of  being  devoted  to  profene  revelry,  was 
spent  in  religious  devotion,  and  many  were  inquiring 
what  they  should  do  to  be  saved.  The  result  was,  that 
this  year,  1822,  there  were  returned  1 1  the  Minutes  in 
this  mission  one  hundred  and  four :  hirty  i^iur  in  T?ork, 
and  seventy  in  the  new  settlements. 

To  aid  the  missionaries  in  their  work,  the  American 
Bible  Society  made  a  generous  donation  of  Bibles  and 
3 


1822.]  METHOBHT    EPI800PAI,    CHDHCH.  21] 

Testaments  for  gratuitous  distribution  among  the  poor 
in  that  district  of  country.  '^ 

Many  parts  of  our  general  work  were  blessed  with 
revivals  of  the  worl.  „f  God.    Among  others,  the  follow- 
ing may  be  mentioned  :-Bmokly„,  Long  Island,  was 
FwerfuUy  v^jted  with  the  refreshing  influences  of  the 
Spirit,  under  the  labore  of  the  Rev.  Lewis  Pease.     This 
work  commenced  at  a  camp  meeting  held  at  Musquito 
Cove,  Long  Island,  and  was  productive  of  the  conver- 
lon  and  addition  to  the  Church  in  that  place  of  not 
less  than  one  hundred  souls.     Several  towns  on  the 
Amenia  circuit  were  visited  by  powerful  revivals,  which 
terminated  in  the  conversion  of  about  two  hundred 
souk,  one  hundred  and  seventy  of  whom  joined  our 
thurch,  and  the  rest  were  divided  between  the  Presbv- 
erians  and  Baptis^.     Among  these  converts,  several, 
at  a  place  called  Oblong,  had  been  Universalis.   Bein-^ 
oonvinced  of  the  excellence  of  the  power  of  religion! 

ive  belief  in  Christianity,  and  yielded  to  be  saved  „„«,, 
by  «  grace,  through  faith." 

N.tr'V^^'^  ^^  P"''*"*^  ""  *«  Tolland  circuit, 
JNew-England  conference,  which  eventuated  in  the  con- 
ve^ion  of  about  two  hundred  and  fifty,  of  almost  all 

S^  ir  .""^^r-  *'  '^  '=^™P  ™-«"g  held  at 
tt!.»  r1'.  ;*^'  numerously  attended,  there 
we^  manifest  displays  of  the  power  and  grace  of  God 
m  the  awakenmg  and  conversion  of  souls.  The  fruits 
0  this  revival  were  divided  among  the  Methodists,  Con- 

added  to  the  Methodist  Church." 

elder^onh^^T; ."?'.'''  ?».«"'««»«'.  who  was  the  presiding 
ewer  of  the  district,  m  giving  an  account  of  this  work,  relate! 


iW 


ai3 


A   HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1822. 


The  Upper  Canada  digtrict.  then  under  the  charge 
of  the  Rev.  William  Case,  is  thus  deecribed  by  him : — 

"  Blessed  be  the  Lord,  wo  arc  prospering  finely  in  this 
country.  Our  congregations^  sabbath  schools,  missionary 
collections,  a  church-buildipg  spirit,  as  well  as  conver- 
sions, sind  order  and  harmony  in  the  societies,  all  demon- 
strate thf^  rising  strength  of  Zion  in  these  parts.  There 
are  now  finishing  or  commencing  twenty  churches  in  this 
upper  half  of  the  province.  Wo  have  more  than  forty  sab- 
batii  schools,  and  ono  tliousand  scholars.  These  nurse- 
ries of  virtue  and  religious  information  promise  much  to 
the  prosperity  of  the  rising  generation,  both  in  a  civil  and 
religious  point  of  view.  A  great  and  happy  improvement 
is  visible  since  the  close  of  the  late  war,  which,  in  many 
places,  by  the  confusion  and  calamities  it  introduced,  had 
broken  down  the  barriers  of  vice.  Churches  are  crowded 
with  listening  hearers  Youth  and  children,  instead  of 
wandering  in  the  fields,  or  loitering  in  the  streets,  are  in 
many  places  thronging  to  the  schools,  with  their  books  in 
their  hands,  and  learning  to  read  the  book  of  God.  One 
man,  who  has  a  large  family  of  children,  a  few  days  since 
observed  to  me  that,  '  since  sabbath  schools  began,  he  had 
had  no  trouble  in  the  government  of  his  family.' " 

the  following  aftecting  and  mournful  incident:— A  young 
man,  about  eighteen  years  of  age,  who  attended  the  meeting, 
was  earnestly  solicited  by  some  of  his  young  associates,  who 
had  recently  embraced  the  Saviour,  to  seek  the  salvation  of 
God.  He  constantly  resisted  their  importunities,  though 
they  were  seconded  by  preachers  and  other  friends,  by  say- 
ing, "  I  will  wait  till  I  get  home."  On  his  way  home  he 
suddenly  sprung  from  the  wagon,  and  exclaimed,  "Mother, 
I  am  dying !  I  am  dying !  I  shall  not  live  an  hour !  0  that 
I  had  sought  religion  at  the  camp  meeting!"  Though  a 
physician  was  procured,  it  was  in  vain.  His  flesh  soon  as- 
sumed a  purple  hue,  and  the  next  day,  at  about  eight  o'clock, 
P  M-^  he  breathed  his  last= 


1822.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  213 

On  the  Smyrna  circuit,  Delaware,  there  was  an  out- 
pouring of  the  Spirit,  which  resulted  in  the  conversion 
of  many  souls ;  one  hundred  and  twenty  were  con- 
nected with  our  Church,  forty  of  whom  were  colored 
people.  Before  this  revival  the  colored  members  of  the 
Church  had  been  much  divided  in  spirit,  by  the  efforts 
of  the  Allenites  to  form  a  party ;  but  this  good  work  had 
the  happy  effect  of  uniting  them  more  closely  together, 
and  of  cementing  their  union  with  the  Church  which 
had  nursed  them  from  their  infancy. 

In  Surry  county,  in  Virginia,  through  the  agency  of 
camp  meetings  and  other  means  of  grace,  about  three 
hundred  souls  were  brought  to  the  knowledge  of  God 
by  faith  in  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  general  impression 
made  on  the  public  mind  was  most  favorable  to  the 
cause  of  truth  and  love.  In  Lynchburg  also,  in  this 
state,  there  were  added  to  the  Church  upward  of  one 
hundred  members,  as  the  result  of  a  revival  in  that 
place. 

At  a  camp  meeting  held  in  the  Scicto  district,  Ohio, 
the  work  of  God  prevailed  po^^  erfully,  and  from  thence 
spread  m  different  directions  through  the  country.    This 
meeting,  which  was  under  the  superintendence  of  the 
Kev.  G.  R.  Jones,  was  attended  by  about  sixty  of  the 
converted  Indians  of  the  Wyandots,  among  whom  were 
^veral  of  the  chiefs  who  had  embraced  Christianity. 
These  spoke  in  a  most  feeling  manner  of  the  work  of 
God  in  their  own  hearts,  and  among  the  people  of  their 
nation,  while  tears  of  grateful  joy  bespoke  the  interest 
which  the  congregation  felt  in  their  spiritual  and  eternal 
welfare. 

On  the  Northumberland  district,  under  the  charge  of 
ihe  Kev.  H.  Smith,  by  means  of  various  camp  meetings 

3 


it 

"A 


214  A   HISTORY    OF   THE  [1822. 

which  were  held  in  the  several  circuits,  not  less  than 
two  liundied  souls  were  brought  to  God,  while  a  con- 
viction of  the  necessity  of  being  reconciled  to  him  through 
faith  in  his  Son  spread  extensively  among  the  people  in 
that  region  of  country. 

The  Hudson  river  district,  New- York  conference, 
through  a  si  lilar  agency,  shared  largely  in  the  good 
work  this  year. 

The  New-Rochelle  circuit,  New- York,  was  blessed 
with  a  great  revival  of  religion,  under  the  labors  of  the 
Rev.  Elijah  Woolsey  and  his  colleagues.  White  Plains, 
Rye,  Sawpit,  and  New-Rochelle  all  shared  in  the  bene- 
fits of  this  glorious  work :  and  so  earnest  were  many  to 
attend  the  meetings,  with  a  view  to  seek  the  salvation 
of  their  souls,  that  some  came  from  ten  to  twelve  miles, 
and  many  such  returned  rejoicing  in  God  their  Saviour. 
In  consequence  of  this  work,  the  nett  increase  in  this 
circuit  among  the  whites  was  one  hundred  and  nine.* 

In  Washington  city,  D.  C,  God  poured  out  his  Spirit 
in  a  remarkable  manner,  in  answer  to  the  prayers  of 
his  people.  During  this  work,  in  little  more  than  two 
months,  one  hundred  and  fifty-eight  were  received  into 
the  Church  as  probationers. 

There  was  also  a  good  work  in  the  city  of  New- 
York,  about  three  hundred  being  added  lo  the  Church. 
This  was  encouraging  to  those  who  had  mourned  over 
the  departure  of  so  many  two  years  before. 

I  have  before  remarked,  that  during  this  period  of 
our  history  we  were  called  upon  to  sustain  a  n3W  war- 
fare to  defend  ourselves  against  the  assaults  of  our 
opponents.  Whether  it  was  from  jealousy  of  our  rising 
prosperity,  or  from  a  real  belief  that  our  doctrines  were 

*  The  exact  number  of  conversions  was  not  reported. 
3 


1822.]  MBTHODIBT  EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  215 

dangerous  to  the  souls  of  men,  other  denominations, 
more  particularly  the  Calvinists,  seemed  to  raUy  to  the 
charge  against    our   ministry,   the  economy  of  our 
Church,  and  our  modes  of  carrying  on  the  work  of 
God.     Hence  a  spirit  of  controversy  was  infused  into 
the  sermons  which  were  delivered  by  our  preachers, 
much  more  than  formerly,  the  necessity  for  which  was 
urged  from  witnessing  new  modes  of  attack.     Indeed,  a 
new  system  of  divinity  was  rising  into  notice,  differing 
in  some  respects  from  the  Calvinism  of  former  days,  in 
which  a  universal  atonement  was  recognized  in  connec- 
tion with  the  doctrine  of  eternal  and  universal  decrees, 
the  force  of  which,  however,  it  was  attempted  to  avoid 
by  mculcating  the  doctrine  of  a  «  natural  ability  and  a 
moral  inability."    By  the  use  of  this  subtle  distinction, 
and  the  doctrine  of  universal  atonement,  keeping  out  of 
view  the  old  doctrine  of  universal  decrees,  some  were 
induced  to  believe  that  the  difference  between  this  new 
divinity  and  Methodism  was  but  shght,  and  therefore 
they  might,  so  far  as  these  doctrines  were  concerned, 
embrace  one  as  well  as  the  other.     Our  preachers  felt 
it  to  be  their  duty  to  unravel  the  sophistry  of  these  ar- 
guments, by  showing  that,  so  long  as  that  doctrine  of 
universal  decrees,  which  involved  the  notion  of  uncon- 
ditional election  and  reprobation,  was  held  fast,  the  two 
systems  were  at  variance,  and  could  never  be  made  to 
harmonize. 

We  were  also  frequently  denounced  as  Arminians. 
And  Arminians  were  represented  as  denying  the  doc- 
tiine  of  human  depravity,  of  regeneration  by  the  effi- 
cient grace  of  God,  and  the  necessity  of  divine  aid  in 
working  out  and  securing  our  eternal  salvation.  As  this 
Vvas  a  most  unjust  imputation,  we  telt  called  upon  to 


.^16  A   HISTORY   OF   THE  [1822. 

make  a  full  and  fair  statement  of  our  doctrinal  views, 
and  to  defend  ourselves  against  such  manifest  perver- 
sions of  our  real,  published,  and  acknowledged  senti- 
ments'. In  doing  this,  though  there  may  have  been 
occasional  exhibitions  of  heat  on  both  sides,  and  a  con- 
troversial spirit  indulged,  in  some  instances,  to  too  great 
an  extent,  yet  truth  was  elicited,  and  our  doctrines  and 
usages  became  better  understood,  and  more  highly  and 
generally  appreciated  by  the  community. 

With  a  view  to  secure  a  more  commodious  and  per- 
manent location  for  the  Wesleyan  seminary  in  the  city 
of  New- York,  a  site  was  this  year  procured  in  Crosby- 
street,  by  leasing  three  lots  of  ground,  on  which  the 
trustees  erected  a  brick  building,  sixty-five  feet  in  length 
and  forty  in  breadth,  the  upper  part  of  which  was 
occupied  as  a  place  of  worehip.  Here  a  male  and  fe- 
male academy  was  kept  until  the  premises  were  pur- 
chased by  the  agents  of  the  Book  Concern,  in  the  year 
1824,  when  another  building  was  procured  in  Mott- 
street.  The  academy  at  the  White  Plains  grew  out  of 
the  one  first  commenced  in  the  city  of  New- York ;  and 
when  the  property  of  the  latter  was  disposed  of,  after 
discharging  the  debts  of  the  institution,  the  balance  was 
given  to  the  White  Plains  academy,  which  has  con- 
tinued to  the  present  time. 

Though  the  Wesleyan  seminary  did  not  fully  an- 
swer the  benevolent  designs  of  its  original  founders,  it 
is  believed  that  its  estabHshment  gave  an  impulse  to  the 
cause  of  education  which  has  gone  on  increasing  in 
power  and  influence  to  the  present  day. 

Thirty-seven  preachers  were  this  year  located,  twenty- 
four  returned  supernumerary,  and  seventy-one  superan- 
nuated, and  four  had  died,  namely,  Hamilton  Jeffer- 


1823.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHUP.CH. 


217 


'•^ 


son,  Edward  Orem,  William  Early,  and  John  Pitts, 
each  of  whom  died  in  the  full  assurance  of  faith. 


Number  of  Church  members. 


This  year 
Last  year 


Whites. 

252,645 
239,087 


Colored. 

44,377 
42,059 


Total. 

297,022 
281,146 


Increase      13,558        2,318        15,876* 


Preachers. 

1,106 

977 

129 

It  will  be  perceived  that  there  was  a  morg  thcin  usual 
increase  to  the  number  of  traveling  preachers,  owing  to 
a  diminution  in  the  number  of  locations,  and  a  propor- 
tionate increase  to  the  list  of  superannuated  preachers. 
This  was  probably  owing  to  the  better  provision  which 
began  to  be  made,  in  consequence  of  the  regulations  of 
the  General  Conference  of  1816,  for  the  support  of  the 
families  of  preachers,  and  the  furnishing  parsonages 
for  their  accommodation.     This  last  remedy,  however, 
was  but  partially  provided  as  yet,  though  the  work  was 
happily  begun,  and  has  been  graduaUy  going  forward 
to  the  present  time. 

1823.  The  work  of  God  this  year  was  steadily  ad- 
vancing within  the  bounds  of  the  several  annual  con- 
ferences.  Some  of  the  circuits  in  the  older  parts  of  the 
work,  in  consequence  of  the  increase  of  members  and 
societies,  were  much  contracted,  and  the  number  of 
stations  was  necessarily  multiplied.  In  this  manner 
the  work  was  becoming  more  and  more  compact,  pas- 
toral labor  more  easily  and  punctually  performed,  and 
the  local  interests  of  each  society  more  minutely  at- 

*  Theie  is  an  error  in  the  printed  Minutes  for  this  year. 
there  being  700  less  in  the  increase  than  what  appears  in  the 

8 


,    If 
I   I' 


218  A   HISTORY   OF   THE  [1823. 

tended  to.  Still,  new  circuits  were  formed  in  the  fron- 
tier settlements,  new  missions  opened,  and  some  villages 
and  neighborhoods  not  before  occupied  by  our  ministry, 
til  rough  tlie  aid  of  the  Missionary  Society,  were  supplied 
with  the  word  and  ordinances  of  God.  These  1  shall 
endeavor  to  notice,  so  far  as  authentic  documents  and 
other  sources  of  information  will  enable  me  to  do  it 
correctly. 

The  Missionary  Society,  having  been  recognized  by 
the  General  Conference,  was  now  considered  as  an  in- 
tegral part  of  the  general  plan  of  carrying  on  the  work 
of  God,  and  was  becoming  more  and  more  identified 
with  the  other  institutioos  of  the  Church.  Its  blessed 
results,  also,  which  were  seen  and  felt,  more  especially 
among  the  wandering  savages  of  our  country,  entwined 
it  around  the  affections  of  our  people,  and  called  forth 
their  liberality  for  its  support. 

The  cause  of  missions  was  also  much  aided  about 
this  time  by  the  eloquent  appeals  of  the  Rev.  John 
Summerfield,  a  young  minister  who  came  over  from 
Ireland  and  joined  the  New- York  conference  in  1821. 
He  had  attracted  much  attention  since  his  arrival  among 
us  by  the  sweet  and  melting  strains  of  his  pulpit  ora- 
tory, and  as  he  entered  into  the  spirit  of  our  Missionary 
Society  with  great  zeal  and  energy,  he  contributed 
much  to  the  diffusion  of  its  benevolent  principles  among 
the  people  at  large.  While  stationed  in  the  city  of 
New- York,  in  1822,  where  he  drew  vast  multitudes  to 
listen  to  the  accents  of  redeeming  love,  which  fell  from 
his  lips  in  the  purest  strains  of  gospel  eloquence,  he 
adopted  the  practice  of  delivering  lectures  to  the  children 
at  stated  times,  at  which  he  made  collections  to  aid  the 
Missionary  Society.    And  the  hearty  and  efficient  man- 


1823.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  219 

ner  in  which  he  espoused  this  noble  enterprise  led  the 
Young  Men's  Missionary  Society  of  New- York  to  elect 
him  as  their  president.     His  zeal  in  the  cause  of  God, 
and  the  popularity  of  his  talents  for  addressing  public 
assemblies  on  anniversary  occasions,  induced  so  many 
applications  from  the  benevolent  and  charitable  societies 
for  his  services,  to  which  he  yielded  with  perhaps  too 
great  a  readiness  for  his  strength,  that  he  found  himself 
wearing  out  by  the  intensity  of  his  labors.     This  in- 
duced him,  by  the  advice  of  his  physicians  and  friends, 
to  make  a  voyage  to  Fiance  for  the  benefit  of  his 
health.     While  there  he  sent  the  following  address  to 
the  society  of  which  he  was  the  president,  and  which, 
as  a  sample  of  the  writer's  manner  of  communicating 
his  thoughts,  and  an  evidence  of  the  ardor  with  which 
he  entered  into  this  subject,  I  think  worthy  of  preserva- 
tion.   It  is  as  follows : — 

'^Marseilles,  February  20,  1823. 

"My  Dear  Brethren r—Yoii  are  too  well  acquainted 
with  the  circumstances  which  prevent  my  filling  the  chair 
upon  this  pleasurable  occasion,  to  require  that  I  should 
dwell  upon  them ;  indeed,  it  would  be  irrelevant  to  those 
important  objects  which  have  assembled  you  together :  not 
rimte  sympathies,  but  the  public  good,  will  be  your  pre- 
sent theme  ;  and  in  this  I  realize  my  full  share  of  joy  with 
yon,  for  although  in  a  far  distant  land,  and  that  a  land  of 
strangers,  my  affections  point  to  those  '  whom  I  love  in  the 
truth,'  and  with  whom  I  glory  to  be  in  any  wise  associated 
m  carrying  on  the  cause  of  our  common  Lord. 

"  Upon  the  occasion  of  an  aimiversary  like  yours,  ex- 
hortation to  renewed  zeal  might  be  deemed  impertinent ; 
tne  pulse  of  every  heart  beats  too  high  on  such  an  occa- 
sion in  anticipate  any  decay  in  your  future  exertions.   This 

3 


220 


A   HISTORY   OP   THE 


[1623. 


ff  I 


,i 


(wi 


is  rather  a  season  of  congratulation  and  rejoicing ;  and  in 
commencing  another  year  of  labor  and  reward,  I  devoutly 
implore  for  you  a  continuance  of  that  grace  which  has 
enabled  you  to  remain  *  steadfast,  immovable,  always 
abounding  in  the  work  of  the  Lord.' 

'*  In  common  with  all  who  love  the  interests  of  the  Re- 
deemer's kingdom,  I  rejoice  at  witnessing  that  increase  of 
missionary  zeal  and  missionary  means  which  the  past  year 
lays  open,  not  only  in  your  auxiliary  and  its  parent  societv, 
but  among  other  denominations  of  the  Christian  church ; 
in  this  ♦  you  also  joy  and  rejoice  with  me,'  for  ♦  whether 
Paul,  Apollos,  or  Cephas,  all  are  ours  ;'— so  that  in  what- 
ever  part  of  the  vineyard  the  work  is  wrought,  we  view  it 
♦  not  as  the  work  of  man,  but  as  it  is  in  truth,  the  work  of 
God ;'  for  '  neither  is  he  that  planteth  any  thing,  neither 
he  that  watereth  :  it  is  God  that  giveth  tlie  increase.'  We 
may  collect  from  different  funds,  but  we  bring  to  the  same 
exchequer ;  and  have  no  greater  joy  than  in  the  accumu- 
lation of  the  revenue  of  that  relative  glory  of  the  divine 
character  which  redounds  from  the  salvation  of  men, 
'  through  Christ  Jesus,  unto  the  glory  and  praise  of  God 
the  Father.' 

"  But,  abstracted  from  general  views  of  the  mighty  work 
of  missions,  I  regard  the  branch  to  which  you  are  attache ' 
with  peculiar  pleasure  on  this  occasion.  You  know  ihat, 
from  the  beginning  of  our  existence  in  the  religious  world 
Methodism  has  always  been  a  *  history  of  missions ;'  itj 
venerable  founder,  considering  that  this  was  the  first  cha- 
racter of  the  Christian  church,  and  believing  it  would  be 
the  last,  even  at  that  day  when  '  many  shall  run  to  and  fro, 
and  knowledge  be  increased,'  wisely  instituted  a  ministry 
which  should  be  a  standing  monument  of  what  God  could 
do  by  this  means.  «  Anc'  v-hat  has  God  wrought  V  Some 
there  are,  whom  the  frost  of  many  winters  has  not  chilled 
to  death,  to  whom  our  father's  words  mav  still  be  snoken, 


« 


[Ib23. 

)icing;  and  in 
ird,  I  devoutly 
ce  which  has 
vable,   always 

sts  of  the  Re- 
lat  increase  of 
1  the  past  year 
parent  society, 
istian  church ; 
for  'whether 
that  in  what- 
fht,  we  view  it 
1,  the  work  of 
thing,  neither 
icrease.'  We 
ig  to  the  same 
a  the  accumu- 
of  the  divine 
ition  of  men, 
jraise  of  God 

3  mighty  work 
V  are  attache ' 
bu  know  iuat, 
jUgious  world 
missions ;'  itj 
i  the  first  cha- 
T  it  would  be 
run  to  and  fro, 
ed  a  ministry 
iiat  God  could 
lught?'  Some 
las  not  chilled 
ill  be  flnoken, 


1823.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


22i 


'g 


*  Saw  ye  not  the  cloud  arise 

Little  as  a  human  hand  V 
"  Its  present  state  we  ourselves  have  lived  to  see  : 
'  Now  it  spreads  along  the  skies — 

Hangs  o'er  all  the  thirsty  land! 
When  he  first  the  work  begun, 

Snriall  and  feeble  was  his  day ; 
Now  the  word  doth  swiftly  run, 

Now  it  wins  its  widening  way ! 
More  and  more  it  spreads  and  grows ; 

Ever  mighty  to  prevail, 
Sin's  strong  holds  it  now  o'erthrows, 

Shakes  thf  trembling  gates  of  hell !' 

"  Indeed,  there  are  seasons  wherein  the  overwhelmmg 
influence  of  these  reflections  so  rests  upon  the  mind,  that 
unless  we  heard  the  warning  voice, « What  doest  thou  here, 
Elijah?'  we  should  stand  at  the  base  of  this  mighty  struct- 
ure, and  wholly  spend  our  time  for  naught,  in  admiring 
the  symmetry  and  proportion  of  all  its  parts,  beholding 
'  what  manner  of  stones  and  buildings  are  here !'  But, 
thus  warned,  we  too  ♦  arise  and  build.'  Thus  *  instead  of 
the  fathers  are  the  children,  and  the  children's  children 
shall  yet  add  thereto,  till  the  topstone  be  raised,  shouting, 
Gidce,  grace  unto  it !' 

"  My  dear  brethren,  if  there  is  a  scene  within  the  uni- 
verse of  Gor  calculated  to  lift  our  minds  to  heaven ;  if 
J  is  a  scene  calculated  to  bring  down  the  heavenly 
^'^  earth,  it  is  that  which  portrays  in  anticipation  the 
.  triumph  of  the  '  gospel  of  the  grace  of  God.'     Yes, 
the  gospel  must  ultimately  and  universally  triumph !  Well 
may  we  exclaim,  What  an  object  is  this !     It  is  the  fairest 
scene  that  the  pencil  of  heaven,  dipped  in  the  colors  of  its 
own  rainbow,  can  delineate  ;  and  even  the  great  voice  is- 
suing from  the  eternal  throne  can  utter  nothing  more  exhi- 
larating and  sublime  than  the  consummation  of  this  event, 
'  Behold,  the  tabernacle  of  God  is  with  men !'     Yes,  my 
brethren,  « 


222 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1823 


'Jesus  ghall  reign  whero'flr  the  sun 
Dv,e8  his  successive  courses  run.' 

"The  glow  which  pervaded  the  apostle's  mighty  mind 
did  not  cause  his  pen  to  aberrate  ;  the  spirit  of  inspiration 
sat  upon  him  when  he  declared  that  Jesus  '  must  reign  till 
he  hath  put  all  enemies  under  his  feet.'  That  day  will 
come !  Do  we  expect  to  swell  the  number  who  shall  grace 
his  triumph  ?  Do  we  bum  with  seraphic  ardor  to  be  among 
his  train '  when  he  shall  be  revealed  from  heaven  with 
power  and  great  glory  V  Then  '  gird  up  the  loins  of  your 
mind ;  be  sober,  and  hope  to  the  end,  for  the  grace  that  is 
to  be  brought  unto  you  at  the  revelation  of  Jesus  Christ!' 
Wherefore  '  comfort  one  another  with  these  words,'  for 
truly  '  it  is  with  the  same  comfort  wherewith  I  myself  am 
comforted  of  God.' 

"  You,  my  dear  brethren  of  this  auxiliary,  who  are  the 
managers  of  its  concerns,  I  hail.     I  am  also  one  of  you. 

*  I  write  unto  you,  young  men,  because  ye  are  strong,  and 
the  word  of  God  abideth  in  you.'  Early  separated  from 
the  world,  and  ardently  employed  in  seeking  the  interests 
of « a  better  country,  that  is,  a  heavenly,  God  is  not  ashamed 
to  be  called  your  God,  for  he  has  prepared  for  you  a  city.' 

*  Walk  therefore  by  the  same  rule,  mind  the  same  thing.' 
'Love  not  the  world,  neither  the  things  that  are  in  the 
world.'  *  Set  your  aifections  on  things  above,  and  not  on 
things  upon  the  earth.'     Soon  you  shall  hear  it  sounded, 

*  Because  thou  hast  been  faithful  over  a  few  things,  I  will 
make  thee  ruler  over  many  things ;  enter  thou  into  the  joy 
of  thy  Lord !' 

"  The  friends  and  subscribers  of  this  auxiliary  are  enti- 
tled to  your  thanks  ;  they  have  merited  them  well ;  by 
means  of  the  numerous  little  streams  which  have  been  di- 
rected to  our  reservoir  by  the  friends  of  missions,  our 

*  water-pots,'  if  not  always  full,  have  never  become  dry. 
on  this  occasion,  however,  you  look  to  have  them  '  filled 


1823.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  223 

even  to  the  brim ;'  and  may  He  >vho  can  convert  our  base 
material  to  subserve  his  glorious  purpose  of  saving  men 
•draw  forth'  therefrom  that  'wine  of  the  kingdom  whh 
cheers  the  heart  of  God  and  man.' 
"  I  remain,  my  dear  brethren,  your  fellow-laborer  and 

^^^^^^  '  J.  SUMMERFIELD." 

A  mission  was  commenced  this  year  among  the  Pot- 
tawatamy  Indians,  a  small  tribe  settled  in  the  neiffh- 
borhood  of  Fort  Clark,  on  the  Fox  river,  in  the  state  of 
Illinois,  and  the  R^w.  Jesse  Walker  was  appointed  to 
prosecute  its  objects. 

But  though  he  succeeded,  after  much  toil  and  ex- 
pense, in  establishing  a  school  and  conciliating  the 
fnendship  of  some  of  the  adult  Indians,  yet  the  mis- 
sionary  was  compelled,  after  seven  years  of  hard  labor 
to  abandon  the  enterprise  as  hopeless.  Their  strong 
attachments  to  savage  life,  and  incurable  suspicions  of 
white  men,  together  with  their  final  determination  to 
remove  west,  frustrated  the  benevolent  attempts  to  in- 
troduce  the  gospel  and  the  arts  of  civilized  life  among 

A  fragment  of  the  Wyandot  tribe  of  Indians  was  set- 
tled in  Upper  Canada,  on  the  banks  of  the  river  Car- 
nard.  These  were  first  visited  by  Mr.  Finley,  and 
were  afterward  transferred  to  the  care  of  Mr.  Case  to 
whom  the  superintendence  of  all  the  aboriginal  missions 
in  that  province  was  committed.  About  twenty  of 
these  Indians  embraced  the  Christian  faith,  and  became 
members  of  our  Church. 

In  the  bounds  of  the  Tennessee  conference  there  was 
a  missionary  district  formed,  embracing  that  part  of 
Jackson's  Purchase  that  lies  in  the  states  of  Tennessee 
and  Kentucky,  which  was  committed  to  the  charge  of 


}..4.1 


224  A    HISTORY   OF    THE  [1823. 

the  Rev.  Lewis  Garrett.  This  was  a  new  country, 
rapidly  filling  up  with  inhabitants,  and  there  were  no 
less  than  nine  preachers  appointed  to  supply  them  with 
the  means  of  salvation.  As  before  remarked,  Mr.  Gar- 
rett was  first  appointed  a  missionary  to  this  region  of 
country,  which  contained  not  less  than  ten  thousand 
square  miles,  in  1820,  and  he  succeeded  in  forming  a 
four  weeks'  circuit,  in  which  he  was  assisted,  by  the  ap- 
pointment of  the  presiding  elder,  by  Andrew  J.  Craw- 
ford. And  so  successful  had  they  been  in  1821,  that 
in  1822  there  were  returned  on  the  Minutes  of  the  con- 
ference one  hundred  and  fifty-five  members,  thirteen 
of  whom  were  colored  people.  The  inhabitants  gene- 
rally received  the  messengers  of  the  gospel  with  joyful 
hearts,  opening  their  doors  and  making  them  welcome, 
and  also  contributing,  according  to  their  scanty  means, 
for  their  support,  for  as  yet  the  Missionary  Society  was 
able  to  appropriate  but  little  for  the  furtherance  of 
domestic  missions. 

These  men  of  God,  though  they  had  to  contend  with 
poverty,  bad  roads,  and  to  preach  in  log  huts,  or  under 
the  foliage  of  the  native  trees,  penetrated  into  every  part 
of  the  country  where  settlements  had  been  formed,  and 
succeeded  in  establishing  seve?i  circuits,  in  which  they 
returned  for  the  Minutes  of  1823  one  thousand  one 
hundred  and  twenty-six  members,  one  hundred  and 
one  of  whom  were  colored,  chiefly  slaves. 

This  year  the  gospel  was  more  extensively  intro- 
duced into  the  territory  of  Michigan,  which  was  erected 
into  an  independent  state  and  received  into  the  Union 
in  the  year  1836. 

This  country  was  originally  settled  by  the  French, 
who  sent  Catholic  missionaries  there  as  early  as  1648, 
3 


1923.]  METHODIST  EPISCOPAl    CHBRCH.  283 

and  the  city  of  Detroit  was  founded  in  1670,  by  a  fe«r 
French  fam. he,.  It,  growth  wa,  slow,  but  the'^p^k 
gradually  enlarged  their  bordeis  on  each  side  of  the  Be- 
troit  river,  a  strait  about  twenty-four  mUes  in  leneth 
which  connects  Lakes  St.  Clair  and  Erie,  'n  1763 
this  country,  together  with  Upper  Canada,  passed,  by 

'2  R  vr^'T'  ^"""  ""'  *'"""='•  i-""  «he  hands 
of  the  British,  and  so  remained  until  the  war  of  the 

revolution  separated  it  from  the  British  empire  and 
connected  it  with  the  United  States.     After  this  emi 
gmnls  from  different  parts  of  the  Union  began  to  mingle" 
With  the  original  settlers. 

When  this  country  was  first  visited  by  a  Methodist 
missionary  in  1804,  it  was  in  a  deploraWe  sZ  as  to 
religion  and  morals.*  In  Detroit  there  was  no  preach^ 
ing  except  by  the  French  Catholics,  and  their  influence 
in  favor  of  the  pure  norality  of  the  gospel  was  ex- 

*  When  the  writer  of  this  history  visited  Detroit  in  ifiru 

preacn  in.    On  his  second  visit,  while  preacninff  in  the  pvph 
ing  here  arose  a  tremendous  storm,  accorpani^  t^rthe" 
most  vivid  lightning  and  awful  pealL  of  thundeT  Uecomi 

iSthVm  J  ^^^^'^^f.'^^  ^^re  lighted,  deposited  some  powde? 

t  wo^^d    r' V  ^'''T'  ^''"'"  *^^  W^^^  that  they  supposed 
would  take  fire  and  explode  during  the  sermon     Thev 

wer    disappomted.    The  exercises  closed  with"u?"anv  ex 
S  'S"  *''  ^r^"  ''^^  "«*  burned  down  to  the" 

Ees  of  ^h 't  r^V^*''/"  ^"'  ^"«^'  ^"^^''"^d  their  as! 

he  neL  Ji^*  ^^/^  ^^^  ^^""^^  «nd  remarked,  that  while 

the  peals  of  thunder  were  bursting  over  the  house,  they 


15 


3 


836 


A   HISTORY   OP   THK 


[1823. 


treinoly  feeble.  Tlio  few  Protestant  emigrants  who 
had  settled  in  Detroit  and  some  of  the  adjoining  places 
were  entirely  destitute  of  a  ministry  of  their  own  order, 
and  were  fast  assimilating  into  the  customs  and  habits 
of  those  with  whom  they  associated.  And  thougli  re- 
peated elTorts  had  been  made,  from  time  to  time,  to  es- 
tablish Methodism  in  Detroit,  they  must  have  been 
attended  with  but  little  success,  for  wo  find  no  mernlKjrs 
returned  on  the  Minutes  of  conference  for  that  place 
until  the  year  1822,  and  then  the  number  was  only 
twenty. 

This  year,  1823,  the  Rev.  Alfred  Brunson  was  sta- 
tioned on  the  Detroit  circuit,  which  stretched  through 
the  country  for  four  hundred  miles.  This  he  and  liis 
colleague,  the  Rev.  Samuel  Baker,  surrounded  each 
once  in  four  weeks,  giving  the  people  a  sermon  every 
two  weeks ;  and  their  labors  were  so  far  blessed,  that  in 
1824  the  numbcjr  of  Church  members  had  increased  to 
one  hundred  and  sixty  one. 

This  year  a  small  society  was  formed  at  St.  Mary's. 
This  was  a  military  post  belonging  to  the  United  States, 
situated  on  the  strait  by  that  name,  about  eighty  iriiles 
in  length,  and  which  connects  Lakes  Superior  and  Hu- 
ron, and  is  about  four  hundred  miles  in  a  northerly 
direction  from  Detroit.  The  most  of  this  distance,  at 
that  time,  was  a  wilderness,  infested  with  beasts  of 
prey,  and  dotted  with  here  and  there  an  Indian  villaije. 
It  was  at  this  place  that  a  few  pious  soldiers,  who  had 
l)een  converted  at  Sackett's  Harbor,  were  reuiovcil,  and, 

were  fearful  that  the  Almighty  was  about  to  hurl  a  bolt  at 
their  heads,  as  a  punishment  for  their  wickedness,  and  hence 
they  sat  trembling  for  their  fate  during  the  greater  part  of 
the  sermon. 


1323.] 


MKTHODIST  EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


227 


Iwing  almost  destitute  of  every  religious  privilege,  formed 
themselves  into  a  class,  chose  a  leader,  and  met  together 
for  mutual  edification  and  comfort,  holding  their  meet- 
ings in  the  woods  until  the  barracks  were  erected,  when 
they  were  allowed  the  use  of  the  hospital.     They  were 
much  assisted  by  the  good  countenance  of  Lieutenant 
IJecker,  a  pious  member  of  the  Presbyterian  Church,  to 
whom  they  were  attracted  by  a  congeniality  of  feeling, 
and  they  were  mutually  refreshed  and  strengthened  in 
their  social  meetings.     In  the  course  of  the  winter  their 
number  increased  to  about  fourteen,  which  much  encou- 
raged them  to  iJersevcre  in  their  work  of  faith  and  labor 
of  love. 

This  state  of  things  in  that  part  of  the  country  in- 
duced Mr.  Hrunson  to  call  loudly  for  help,  and  this  led 
(0  the  establishment  of  St.  Mary's  mission  a  short  time 

after. 

The  territory  of  Florida  had  recently  been  ceded  to 
tho  United  States,  as  an  indemnity  for  the  sjX)liation8 
conunitted  upn  our  commerce  by  Spanish  cruisers; 
uikI  as  it  is  the  policy  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church  to  enter  every  open  door  for  the  spread  of  tho 
,!,^08f)el,  a  missionary,  the  Rev.  Joshua  N.  Glenn,  was 
sent  tliis  year  to  St.  Augustine,  the  oldest  town  in  North 
AnuM-ica,  and  capital  of  Kasf  Florida.     Most  of  the  in- 
habitants of  this  place  and  the  surrounding  country  are 
of  Spanish  descent,  and  members  of  the  Roman  Ca- 
tliolic  Church.     There  were,  however,  a  few  Anglo- 
Americans  settled  among  the  Creoles,   to  whon)  our 
missionary  addressed  himself  in  the  name  of  the  Lord, 
and  he  succeeded  in  raising  a  society  of  fifiy-two  meni- 
iHJfj^,  forty  of  whom  were  people  of  color.     This,  how- 
"""-  'is  been  a  barren  place  for  the  growth  of  Method- 


ever, 


fl 


228  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1823. 

ism ;  for  even  now,  (1840,)  after  continued  efTorts  of 
seventeen  years,  St.  Augustine  is  scarcely  represented 
among  our  stations.  This,  however,  is  owing  to  other 
causes  than  the  want  of  a  disposition  on  the  part  of  the 
people  to  receive  the  gospel.  The  late  Indian  warfare 
has  exerted  a  most  destructive  influence  upon  the  reli- 
gious state  of  the  population  through  all  that  region  of 
country,  and  more  particularly  upn  the  citizens  of  St. 
Augustine,  the  chief  rendezvous  of  hostile  armies. 

Chatahoochee,  in  the  bounds  of  the  Florida  territory, 
was  also  selected  as  missionary  ground,  and  its  cultiva- 
tion was  committed  to  Messrs.  John  J.  Triggs  and  John 
Slade.  They  entered  upon  their  work  with  zeal  and 
perseverance ;  and  notwithstanding  the  newness  of  the 
country,  and  the  scattered  state  of  the  population,  there 
were  returned  on  the  Minutes  for  1824,  as  the  fruit  of 
their  labor,  three  hundred  and  fifty-six  members,  sixty- 
four  of  whom  were  colored  people. 

The  Rev.  Alexander  Talley  was  appointed  a  mis- 
sionary this  year  to  Pensacola,  Mobile,  and  Blakely. 
Though  no  immediate  fruit  of  his  labor  in  these  places 
was  seen,  yet  he  opened  the  way  for  the  introduction 
of  the  gospel  into  that  region  of  country,  which  has 
since  flourished  under  the  labors  of  those  who  suc- 
ceeded him  in  his  work. 

St.  Mary's,  situated  near  the  mouth  of  St.  Mary's 
river,  in  the  state  of  Georgia,  near  the  frontier  of  Flo- 
rida, was  visited  this  year  with  a  revival  of  the  work  of 
God,  under  the  ministry  of  the  Rev.  Elijah  Sinclair. 
Though  there  had  been  in  this  place  once  a  flourishing- 
society,  it  had  Iwcome  scattered  abroad,  so  that  when 
Mr.  Sinclair  arrived  there,  in  1822,  he  could  scarcely 
find  a  "place  for  the  sole  of  his  foot;"  but  he  soon 
8 


1823.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


229 


obtained  favor  in  the  eyes  of  the  people,  and  God  so 
blessed  his  faithful  labors,  that  in  1823  there  were  re- 
turned forty-one  members  of  the  Church ;  and  the  good 
work  has  gradually  increased  from  that  time  to  this. 

Cumberland  mission,  in  Kentucky,  was  commenced 
this  year  by  the  Rev.  WiUiam  Chambers.  He  so  far 
succeeded  in  his  efforts  as  to  return  two  hundred  and 
sixty-one  memljers,  two  hundred  and  fifty-one  whites 
and  ten  colored,  in  1824. 

In  1821  Methodism  was  introduced  into  the  town  of 
St.  Louis,  by  the  Rev.  Jesse  Walker,  who  went  there 
as  a  missionary  under  the  direction  of  the  Missouri  con- 
ference.    St.  Louis  is  the  largest  town  on  the  west  bank 
of  the  Mississippi  river,  and  second  to  New-Orleans  in 
importance  as  a  place  for  commercial  pursuits.     Its 
original  settlers  were  French  Roman  Catholics,  this  be- 
ing another  in  the  range  of  settlements  which  they 
established  along  the  course  of  the  waters  from  Quebec 
to  New-Orleans.     It  had  been,  for  some  time  before 
this,  rising  in  importance,  and  increasing  in  its  popula- 
tion by  emigrations  from  different  parts  of  the  United 
States  and  from  the  old  world,  -nd  was  considered  the 
centre  of  commerce  in  that  part  of  the  country. 

I"  this  mixed  population  the  missionary  had  r,ome 
prejudices  to  encounter,  and  the  more  so  on  account  of 
the  indiscreet  conduct  of  some  who  had  represented  the 
citizens  of  that  place  to  the  eastern  churches  as  being 
hut  little  removed  from  barbarians.  Mr.  Walker,  how- 
ever, was  kindly  received  by  a  few,  and  he  graduaUy 
gained  the  confidence  of  the  community,  raised  a  so- 
ciety of  about  one  hundred  members,  and  succeeded  in 
building  a  house  pf  u  rghip  thirty-five  feqt  hi  length 
and  twenty-five  in  width.     Thp  !»=-- 


A  I-— _ 


Jkirj  k  J 


itCy.  ^-iicXaiiuer  siAi- 


? 


i 


230  A   HISTORY   or   THE  [1823. 

lister,  in  giving  an  account  of  this  work,  adverts  to  the 
Missionary  Society  in  the  following  words : — 

"It  is  yet  in  its  infancy,  but  its  growing  importance 
portends  greater  good  to  mankind  than  any  institution  of 
the  kind  hitherto  known.  I  am  induced  to  believe  that 
there  will  be  both  numerous  and  liberal  contributions  to 
support  the  institution,  since  the  money  so  raised  is  to  be 
deposited  in  the  hands  of  men  who  will,  no  doubt,  distri- 
bute it  with  an  economical  hand  for  the  support  of  those 
missionaries  whose  zeal  is  not  a  transient  blaze,  but  a 
constant  flame,  consuming  vice  and  iniquity  before  it,  and 
with  a  gentle  hand  leading  the  penitent  sons  and  daughters 
of  men  up  to  the  throne  of  grace,  where  they  may  obtain 
the  mercy  and  salvation  of  God." 

Mr,  Walker  was  reappointed  to  St.  Louis  in  1822,  at 
the  end  of  which  year  there  were  returned,  including 
the  station  and  circuit,  one  hundred  and  sixty-six  white 
and  forty  colored  members  of  the  Church.  He  was 
succeeded  this  year  by  the  Rev.  William  Beauchamp, 
whose  labors  were  acceptable  and  useful,  and  the  cause 
has  gradually  gone  forward  from  that  time  to  this. 

The  aboriginal  missions,  which  had  been  begun 
under  such  favorable  auspices,  and  which  promised  so 
much  good  to  the  wandering  tribes  of  our  wildernesses, 
continued  to  prosper  this  year  more  than  ever.  These, 
together  with  the  exertions  which  were  made  in  their 
behalf,  tended  powerfully  to  awaken  a  deep  and  Uvely 
interest  through  the  ranks  of  our  Israel  in  favor  of  pro- 
secuting the  cause  with  increasing  zeal  and  energy. 
The  Wyandot  mission,  which  had  been  committed  to 
the  care  of  Mr.  Finley,  was  this  year  visited  by  Bishop 
M'Kendree,  who  entered  most  heartily  into  the  cause 


Oi  liils^luilS,  Culitriul 


•aim   vj 


«  *       * 


Kv 


[1823. 

verts  to  the 


importance 
nstitution  of 
believe  that 
tributions  to 
Bed  is  to  be 
loubt,  distri- 
art  of  those 
blaze,  but  a 
efore  it,  and 
id  daughters 

may  obtain 

in  1822,  at 
],  including 
ly-six  white 
.  He  was 
Jeauchamp, 
id  the  cause 
to  this. 
»een  begun 
Jiomised  so 
wildernesses, 
er.  These, 
ide  in  their 
)  and  Uvely 
avor  of  pro- 
md  energy. 
)mmitted  to 
I  by  Bishop 
0  the  cause 


1823.]  METHODIST  EPISCOPAL  CHURCH.  231 

his  example,  an  impetus  to  the  work  in  every  direction. 
And  as  his  testimony  is  that  of  an  eye-witness,  capable 
of  estimating  the  nature  and  importance  of  the  reforma- 
tion which  had  been  efTected  among  these  people,  the 
reader  will  be  pleased  to  read  it  in  the  bishop's  own 
words.    It  is  as  follows : — 

"On  Saturday,  the  21st  of  June,  about  ten  o'clock  in 
the  morning,  we  arrived  safe,  and  found  the  mission  family 
and  the  school  all  in  good  health ;  but  was  much  fatigued 
myself,  through  affliction  and  warm  weather,  which  was 
quite  oppressive  to  me  in  crossing  over  the  celebrated 
Sandusky  Plains,  through  which  the  road  lies. 

"  In  the  afternoon  we  commenced  visiting  the  schools, 
and  repeated  our  visits  frequently  during  the  five  days 
which  we  stayed  with  them.     These  visits  were  highly 
gratifying  to  us,  and  they  afforded  us  an  opportunity  of 
observing  the  behavior  of  the  cliildren,  both  in  and  out  of 
school,  their  improvement  in  learning,  and  the  whole  order 
and  management  of  the  school ;  together  with  the  profi- 
ciency of  the  boys  in  agriculture,  and  of  the  girls  in  the 
various  domestic  arts.     They  are  sewing  and  spinning 
handsomely,  and  would  be  weaving  if  they  had  looms! 
The  children  are  cleanly,  chaste  in  their  manners,  kind  to 
each  other,  j-eaceable  and  friendly  to  all.     They  promptly 
obey  orders,  and  do  their  work  cheerfully,  without  any 
objection  or  murmur.     They  are  regular  in  their  attend- 
ance on  family  devotion  and  the  public  worship  of  God, 
and  sing  delightfully.     Their  proficiency  in  learning  was 
gratifying  to  us,  and  is  well  spoken  of  b>  visitors.     If  they 
do  not  sufliciently  understand  what  they  read  it  is  for  the 
want  of  suitable  books,  especially  a  translation  of  English 
words,  lessons,  hymns,  &c.,  into  their  own  tongue. 

^"But  Ae  change  which  has^  been  wrought  Imong  the 
n^ih  Indiana  is  ^onderfui !    This  people,  •  that  walked  in 

8 


i 


232  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1823. 

darkness,  have  seen  a  great  light ;  they  that  dwelt  in  the 
land  of  the  shadow  of  death,  upon  them  hath  the  light 
shined.'  And  they  havs  been  <  called  from  darkness  into 
the  marvelous  light  of  the  gospel.  To  estimate  correctly 
the  conversion  of  these  Indians  from  heathenish  darkness, 
it  should  bo  remembered  that  the  Friends  (or  Quakers) 
were  the  first  to  prepare  them  in  some  degree  for  the  in- 
troduction  of  the  gogn  '  '  y  raiiei.ay  continuing  to  counsel 
them,  and  to  afford  tlx';.-         uniary  aid. 

"  The  first  successfuk  missionaiy  that  appeared  among 
them  was  Mr.  Steward,  a  colored  man,  and  a  member  of 
our  Church.  The  state  of  these  Indians  is  thus  described 
by  him,  in  a  letter  to  a  friend,  dated  in  June  last : — 

" '  The  situation  of  the  Wyandot  nation  of  Indians  when 
I  first  arrived  among  them,  near  six  years  ago,  may  be 
judged  of  from  their  manner  of  living.  Some  of  their 
houses  were  made  of  small  poles,  and  covered  with  bark ; 
others  of  bark  altogether.  Their  farms  contained  from 
about  two  acres  to  less  than  half  an  acre.  The  women 
did  nearly  all  the  work  that  was  done.  They  had  as 
many  as  two  ploughs  in  the  nation,  but  these  were  seldom 
used.     In  a  word,  thoy  were  really  in  a  savage  state.' 

"  But  now  they  are  building  hewed  log  houses,  with 
brick  chimneys,  cultivating  their  lands,  and  successfully 
adopting  the  various  agricultur  1  arts.  They  now  manifest 
a  relish  for,  and  begin  to  enjo}  ihe  benefits  of  civilization ; 
and  it  is  probable  that  some  of  them  will  this  year  raise 
an  ample  support  for  their  families,  from  the  produce  of 
their  farms. 

"  There  are  more  than  two  hundred  of  them  who  have 
renounced  heathenism  and  embraced  the  Christian  reli- 
gion, giving  unequivocal  evidence  of  their  sincerity,  of  the 
reality  of  a  divine  change.  Our  missionaries  have  taken 
them  under  their  pastoral  care  as  probationers  for  mem- 
bership in  our  Chiirgh,  and  are  e^g£^ged  in  instructing 
3 


1823.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  233 

them  in  the  doctrine  and  duties  of  our  holy  religion,  though 
he  various  duties  of  the  missionaries  prevent  them  from 
devoting  sufficient  time  for  the  instruction  of  these  inquirers 
after  truth.     But  the  Lord  hath  mercifully  provided  help- 
crs,  in  the  conversion  of  several  of  the  interpreters  and  a 
majority  of  the  chiefs  of  the  nation.     The  interpreters, 
feehng  themselves  the  force  of  divine  truth,  and  entering 
more  readily  into  the  plan  of  the  gospel,  are  much  more 
efficient  organs  for  communicating  instruction  to  the  In- 
dians     Some  of  these  chiefs  are  men  of  sound  judgment, 
and  strong,  penetrating  minds ;  and  having  been  more  par- 
ticularly instructed,  have  made  great  proficiency  in  the 
knowledge  of  God  and  of  divine  truths;  and  being  very 
zealous,  they  render  important  assistance   in  the  good 
work.     The  regularity  of  conduct,  the  solemnity  and  de- 
votion of  this  people,  in  time  of  divine  service,  of  which  I 
witnessed  a  pleasing  example,  is  rarely  exceeded  in  our 
own  worshiping  assemblies. 

;'  To  the  labors  and  influence  of  these  great  men,  the 
chiefs,  may  also  in  some  degree  be  attributed  the  good 
conduct  of  the  children  in  school.     Three  of  the  chiefs 
officiate  in  the  school  as  a  committee  to  preserve  good  or- 
der and  obedience  among  the  children.     I  am  told  that 
Between-thclogs,  the  principal  speaker,  has  lectured  the 
school  children  in  a  very  able  and  impressive  manner,  on 
he  design  and  benefit  of  the  school,  attention  to  their  stu- 
dies  and  obedience  to  their  teachers.     This  excellent  man 
IS  also  a  very  zealous  and  a  useful  preacher  of  righteous- 
ness.    He  has,  in  conjunction  with  others  of  th'    tribe 
lately  visited  a  neighboring  nation,  and  met  with  encou- 
ragement. 

"  On  the  third  day  after  our  arrival  we  dined  with  Be- 

tween-tMogs  and  about  twenty  of  their  principal  men,  six 

of  whom  were  chiefs  and  three  interpreters,  and  were  very 

'   ~" Tv^^-ij  ciiiciiiwiiuu.     Alter  uimier  we 


234 


A   HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1823. 


•aKj;* 


were  all  comfortably  seated,  a  few  of  us  on  benches,  the 
rest  on  the  grass,  under  a  pleasant  grove  of  shady  oaks, 
and  spent  about  two  hours  in  council.  I  requested  them 
to  give  us  their  views  of  the  state  of  the  school ;  tP  inform 
us,  without  reserve,  of  any  objections  they  might  have  to 
the  order  and  management  thereof,  and  to  suggest  any 
alteration  they  might  wish.  I  also  desired  to  know  how 
their  nation  liked  our  religion,  and  how  those  who  had 
embraced  it  were  prospering. 

"  Their  reply  was  appropriate,  impressive,  and  dignified, 
embracing  distinctly  every  particular  inquiry,  and  in  the 
order  they  were  proposed  to  them.  The  substance  of 
their  reply  was,  that  thsy  thought  the  school  was  in  a 
good  state  and  very  prosperous ;  were  perfectly  satisfied 
with  its  order  and  management,  pleased  with  the  superin- 
tendent and  teachers,  and  gratified  with  the  improvement 
of  the  children.  It  was  their  anxious  wish  for  its  perma- 
nence and  success.  They  gave  a  pleasing  account  of 
those  who  had  embraced  religion,  as  to  their  moral  con- 
duct and  inoflfensive  behavior,  and  attention  to  their  reli- 
gious duties.  They  heartily  approved  of  the  religion  they 
had  embraced,  and  were  highly  pleased  with  the  great 
und  effectual  reformation  which  had  taken  place  among 
ihem. 

"  In  the  close  they  expressed  the  high  obligations  they 
were  under  to  all  their  kind  friends  and  benefactors,  and 
in  a  very  respectful  and  feeling  manner  thanked  their 
visitors,  and  the  superintendent  and  teachers,  for  their  kind 
attention  to  themselves  and  to  their  children;  and  con- 
cluded with  a  devout  wish  for  the  prosperity  and  eternal 
happiness  of  them  and  all  their  kind  friends.  It  was  an 
affecting  scene,  and  tears  bespoke  their  sincerity. 

"  To  this  school  there  are  Indian  children  sent  from 
Canada.  Others  which  were  lately  sent  were  detained 
and  taken  into  another  school,  at  the  rapids  of  iviaumee, 
3 


235 


1821.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 

under  the  direction  of  ihe  Presbyterians.  An  apology  was 
written  by  the  superintendent  thereof  to  ours,  stating  that 
the  detention  was  made  on  the  presumption  that  our  school 
wao  full,  &c. 

"When  we  reflect  upon  the  state  of  the  Wyandots, 
compared  with  their  former  savage  condition,  we  may 
surely  exclaim, '  What  hath  God  wrought !'  '  The  parched 
ground  hath  become  a  pool,  and  the  thirsty  land  springs  of 
water ;  the  wilderness  and  the  solitary  place  is  made  glad, 
and  the  desert  blossoms  as  the  rose.'  The  marks  of  a 
genuine  work  of  grace  among  these  sons  of  the  forest  ac- 
cord so  perfectly  with  the  history  of  the  great  revivals  of 
religion  in  all  ages  of  the  Church,  that  no  doubt  remains 
of  its  being  the  work  of  God. 

"  That  a  great  and  eflfectual  door  is  opened  on  our  fron- 
tier for  the  preaching  of  the  gospel  to  the  Indian  nations 
which  border  thereon,  and  that  we  are  providentially  called 
to  the  work,  I  have  no  doubt.  The  only  question  is,  Are 
we  prepared  to  obey  the  call  ?  The  success  of  our  mis- 
sionary labors  does  not  depend  on  the  interference  of  mi- 
raculous power,  as  in  the  case  of  the  apostles,  but  on  the 
ordinary  operations  and  influences  of  the  Holy  Spirit, 
through  the  instrumentality  of  a  gospel  ministry,  supported 
by  the  liberality  of  a  generous  people. 

"  We  have  lately  received  an  invitation  from  a  distin- 
guished oflicer  of  the  governme.it  to  extend  our  missionary 
labors  to  a  distant  nation  of  Indians.  A  gentleman  of  this 
state  who  has  visited  New-Orleans  has  taken  a  deep  inte- 
rest in  its  favor ;  and  from  the  great  increase  of  population 
from  other  states,  and  the  great  probability  of  doing  good 
at  least  among  them,  he  urges  another  attempt.  And  from 
his  influence,  his  ability,  and  disposition  to  minister  to  its 
support,  we  entertain  a  hope  of  success. 

im  a  general  view  of  our  missions,  and  of  what  the 
doing  by  us,  we  certainly  have  abundant  cause  to 


<( 


'■h^J 


236 


A    HISTORY    OP   THE 


lEi^ 


^jfajgE. 


[1823. 

*  thank  God  and  take  courage,'  and  to  persevere  faithfully 
and  diligently  in  the  great  work,  looking  to  the  great  Head 
of  the  Church,  that  he  may  bless  our  labors  and  crown 
them  with  success. 

"  Yours  in  the  bonds  of  the  gospel  of  peace." 

Nor  is  the  following  account  less  interesting  and  illus- 
trative of  the  power  of  gospel  truth.  It  is  from  the  pen 
of  the  Rev.  G.  R.  Jones,  who  was  present  and  witnessed 
the  ceremony  which  he  describes  in  the  following 
words : — 

"  At  our  late  Ohio  annual  conference,  held  in  Urbana, 
there  wjre  several  of  the  red,  and  one  or  two  of  the  colored 
brethren  present,  from  the  Wyandot  mission  at  Upper  San- 
dusky. Several  interviews  took  place  between  our  gene- 
ral superintendents  and  them,  during  the  sitting  of  the 
conference,  at  Bishop  M'Kendree's  room,  at  one  of  which 
I  was  present  part  of  the  time. 

'  A  few  friends  were  invited  to  be  present  at  this  inter- 
view. As  breaking  bread  together  has  been  a  token  of 
hospitality  and  friendship  among  most  nations,  a  cup  of  tea 
was  prepared  by  the  family,  and  at  a  suitable  time  they 
were  waited  on  with  it.  Bishop  M'Kendree,  without  any 
previous  arrangement  or  design,  appears  to  have  been 
made  a  kind  oi'  master  of  ceremonies — he  was  waited  on 
first.  The  sagacity  of  the  red  brethren  was  quite  observa- 
ble ;  they  kept  their  eye  on  him,  and  conformed  in  every 
particular.  Jonathan,  a  man  of  color,  (who  has  served 
the  .mission  from  the  beginning  as  an  interpreter,  and  who, 
whiii  engaged  in  this  work,  became  convinced  of  sin,  and 
happily  converted  to  God,)  was  one  of  the  company ;  he 
modestly  declined  partaking  with  them,  but,  being  press- 
ingly  solicited  by  Bishop  M'Kendree,  yielded.  After  the 
repast  was  over,  the  red  brethren  joined  in  singing  several 
hymns  in  their  own  tongue,  during  which  a  number  in  ♦he 


1823.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  237 

house  within  hearing  crowded  into  the  room,  until  there 
might  have  been  as  many  as  forty  present;  Mononcue  (a 
chief )  rose,  and,  approaching  Bishop  M'Kendree  respect- 
fully, held  out  the  hand  of  friendship,  which  was  cordially 
received,  and  a  warm  emb:  ice  took  place ;  this  appears  to 
have  taken  off  all  restraint.     Between-the-logs  (another 
chief)  followed  his  example,  and  they  proceeded  round  to 
all  m  the  room,  while  sighs  and  tears  witnessed  the  feel- 
ings of  most  who  were  present ;  but  they  were  sighs  of 
gratitude  and  astonishment,  and  tears  of  joy.     The  spirit 
of  hostile  foes  in  the  field  of  battle  was  lost  in  the  spirit 
of  harmony  and  Christian  love,  which  appeared  to  fill  the 
room.    I  have  witnessed  few  scenes  which  carried  stron«rer 
conviction  to  my  heart  of  the  truJi  and  excellence  of  the 
religion  of  the  meek  and  humble  Jesus.     I  was  ready  to 
cry  out  and  say,  « What  hath  the  Lord  wrought !' 

"  A  worthy  gentleman,  high  in  office  tind  respectability 
had  received  an  invitation,  and  was  present  at  the  inter- 
view.    It  seems  he  had  imbibed  an  opinion,  whJch  is  per- 
haps prevalent  among  politicians,  that  it  is  impracticable 
to  Christianize  the  aborigines  of  our  country.     He  was 
placed  m  a  part  of  the  room  farthest  from  the  door.     When 
:he  chiefs  approached  him  all  his  unbelief  appears  to  have 
given  way,  his  arms  were  open  to  give  the  friendly  em- 
brace, while  the  flowing  tear  bore  witness  to  a  reciprocity 
of  feelmg.     He  was  heard  to  exclaim,  a  day  or  two  after- 
ward, « I  am  fully  converted !'     At  the  close  of  the  singine 
by  the  red  brethren  Bishop  Roberts  made  a  few  appropri- 
ate  remarks  and  we  all  joined  him  in  singing,  at  the  close 
ot  which,  from  the  fulness  of  his  heart,  he  offered  up  a 
fervent  prayer.     We  again  joined  in  singing,  and  one  of 
the  chiefs    (Bet.veen.the.Iogs,)  being  called  on,  prayed 
in  a  very  feeling  manner,  while  every  heart  appeared  to 
respond  the  hearty  amen !     The  meeting  was  then  drawn 
to  a  close." 


m 


3 


238 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1823. 


The  mission  now  contained  one  hundred  and  fifty- 
four  members  of  the  Church  and  sixty  scholars,  who 
were  taught  letters  and  the  duties  of  domestic  life. 

This  year  Mr.  Pinley,  in  company  with  some  of  the 
converted  chiefs  and  an  interpreter,  set  off  on  a  visit  to 
the  Chippeways,  on  the  Saganaw  river,  with  a  view,  if 
practicable,  to  establish  a  mission  amoujg  them.  They 
at  length  arrived  at  the  Wyandot  reservation,  on  the 
Huron  river,  where  they  were  cordially  received  and 
entertained  by  a  white  man  called  Honnes,  who  had 
lived  with  the  Indians  for  many  years,  having  been 
taken  a  prisoner  when  quite  a  lad.  He  was  now  sup- 
posed to  be  not  less  than  one  hundred  years  of  age, 
could  remember  nothing  of  his  parentage,  nor  of  his 
days  previous  to  his  captivity,  only  that  he  was  called 
Honnes.  He  was  now  much  crippled  and  nearly  blind, 
but  was  very  intelligent  and  communicative.  He  sat 
upon  a  deer-skin,  and,  through  an  interpreter — for  he 
had  lost  all  knowledge  of  his  vernacular  language — he 
addressed  our  missionaries  in  the  following  manner : — 
"  My  children,  you  are  welcome  to  my  cabin ;  and  I 
now  thank  the  Great  Spirit  that  he  has  provided  a  way 
for  us  to  meet  together  in  this  world.  I  thank  him  foi* 
all  his  mercies  to  me.  He  has  fed  me  all  my  life.  He 
has  saved  me  in  the  field  of  blood,  and  has  lifted  up  my 
head  when  I  have  been  sick,  and,  like  a  kind  father, 
has  protected  and  provided  for  me."  These  affecting 
remarks  from  this  patriarch  of  the  woods  were  listened 
to  with  great  attention  and  respect,  being  interrupted 
now  and  then,  by  those  Indians  who  were  present,  by 
the  expression,  tough,  which  signifies,  all  true,  and 
then  the  pipe  of  peace  was  lighted,  passed  around  the 
company,  and  returijed  to  the  aged  sire.  This  cere- 
3 


1823.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  239 

mony  being  ended,  Mr.  Pinley  informed  him  that,  hav- 
ing often  heard  of  him,  he  had  come  some  distance  out 
of  his  way  to  see  him,  and  then  proceeded  to  explain  to 
him  the  gospel  of  Jesus  Christ.     The  tears  which 
coursed  down  his  withered  cheeks,  while  he  listened 
with  solemn  attention  to  the  words  of  truth,  bespoke  the 
deep  feeling  of  his  heart,  and  the  hvely  interest  which 
he  took  in  the  subject.     The  discourse  being  closed,  he 
took  Mr.  Fmley  by  the  hand,  and,  calling  for  blessings 
on  him  and  his  associates,  said,  «I  have  been  praying 
for  many  years  that  God  might  send  some  light  to  thk 
nation."  ° 

After  hearmg,  the  next  day,  some  historical  anec 
dotes  of  the  Wyandots  from  this  aged  man,  who  had 
been  for  so  many  years  shut  out  from  civilized  life  and 
immured  m  the  dungeon  of  heathenism,  Mr.  Finley 
bade  him  an  affectionate  adieu,  and  continued  his  jour- 
ney m  search  of  other  lost  sheep  of  the  house  of  Israel, 
rhese  men  of  the  woods,  however,  were  not  forgotten 
by  the  Chnstian  missionaries,  but  were  sought  out  and 
provided  with  the  means  of  salvation,  the  benefits  of 
which  some  of  them  received.    Of  the  destiny  of  Honnes 
whose  simple  story  is  so  affecting,  I  have  not  been  in- 
formed, but  trust  the  God  of  all  the  families  of  the  earth 
did  not  forget  him  in  his  lonely  retreat,  nor  refuse  his 
prayers  for  more  light  to  the  nation  who  had  adopted 
him  as  a  brother.     He  seemed,  indeed,  like  the  Nestor 
of  his  tribe,  and  to  be  preserved  to  this  good  old  age  to 
welcome  the  harbingers  of  peace  and  good-will  to  the 
borders  of  his  land  and  nation. 

For  that  abandoned  class  of  females  who  have  been 
seduced  from  the  paths  of  virtue  by  the  wiles  of  the 
other  sex,  many  efforts  had  been  made  by  the  pious 


,-"' 


240 


A   HISTORY   OF   THS 


[1823. 


and  benevolent  in  the  city  of  New- York,  as  well  as  in 
other  places  where  this  destructive  vice  had  become  so 
predominant,  but  without  any  permanent  eflfect.  It 
seems,  indeed,  that  among  all  the  vices  which  infect 
mankind,  this,  when  its  corruptinj?  sway  has  been  once 
[lermitted  to  gain  an  ascendency,  is  the  most  inveterate, 
and  of  course  the  most  dii!icult  to  eradicate.  Not,  how- 
ever, entirely  desjmiring  of  success  in  attempting  to 
efVect  a  reformation  even  among  these  unhappy  subjects 
of  seduction,  a  mission  was  undertaken  this  year  for 
their  special  benefit,  and  the  Rev.  Samuel  D.  Fergu- 
son was  appointed  to  its  charge.  Though  he  labored 
indefatigably,  in  conjunction  with  some  local  preachers 
and  exhorters  who  volunteered  their  services  to  aid  him, 
and  some  good  impressions  were  made  upon  a  few,  yet 
they  were  soon  efliiced,  and  they  were  compelled,  after 
using  every  exertion  to  accomplish  their  object,  to  aban- 
don their  enterprise  in  despair ;  and  though  subsequent 
cllbrts  have  been  more  successful  in  a  few  instances  in 
which  reformations  have  been  effected,  it  would  seem 
that  more  jwwerful  uieans  must  be  resorted  to  before 
this  soul-destroying  vice  can  be  banished  from  the 
commimity. 

In  consequence  of  this  failure  in  the  primary  object 
of  the  mission,  the  nussionary,  in  the  latter  piut  of  the 
year,  turned  his  attention  to  some  destitute  portions  in 
the  west  sections  of  Long  Island,  where  he  was  more 
successful.  Here  he  formed  a  regular  circuit,  and  raised 
two  classes  of  fifty-two  members,  which  have  continued 
to  flourish,  less  or  more,  to  the  present  time. 

As  it  was  one  object  of  our  missionary  societies  to 
supply  destitute  places  in  the  older  settlements  where 
the  peonlB  were  either  uny,  illing  or  unable  to  support 


1823.] 


METHODIST  EPISCOPAL  CHURCH. 


241 


the  instituuons  of  reUgion,  some  such  were  either  par- 
tially  assisted  from  their  funds  or  whoUy  supported  for 
a  season,  as  the  case  might  be.    Among  others  may 
be  mentioned,  as  showing  the  good  effects  of  this  policy 
the  town  of  New-Brunswick,  in  the  state  of  New-Jersev 
This,  though  an  old  settled  place,  had  been  a  barren 
soil  for  Methodism.     Our  preachere  had  long  preached 
there  occasionally  to  a  feeble  few,  but  under  great  dis- 
couragements.    In  1821  the  Rev.  Charles  Pittman  was 
sent  there  ds  a  missionary,  under  the  patronage  of  the 
Philadelphia  Conference  Missionary  Society,  and  again 
m  IH44.    He  met  with  much  opposition,  owing  to  the 
deep-rooted  prejudices  cherished  against  the  pecuUari- 
ties  of  Methodism.     His  congregation  was  small,  not 
amounting  to  more  than  thirty  for  some  weeks  durinff 
tlie  first  year  of  his  ministry.    He  and  the  little  flock 
liowever,  persevered  in  the  strength  of  faith  and  prayer 
until  a  revival  of  religion  commenced,  which  terminated 
in  the  conversion  of  quite  a  number  of  souls,  so  that  in 
the  month  of  February  of  this  year  they  numbered 
about  one  hundred  communicants.    From  that  time 
the  work  has  steadily  advanced,  and  we  have  now  a 
floiinslung  society  and  a  commodious  house  of  worship 
In  that  place.  '^ 

In  many  other  places,  too  numerous  to  mention,  the 
work  of  God  prevailed  in  the  older  circuits  and  stations. 
On  the  New-Bedford  circuit,  Mass.,  where  a  good  work 
bad  been  progressing  for  some  time,  in  the  month  of 
August  of  this  year  it  had  extended  for  twenty  miles,  so 
ibat  an  entire  new  circuit  had  been  formed,  large 
enough  to  employ  three  preachers. 

The  camp  meetings  continued  to  be  held  with  profit 

"       ^'""=  ""  "«"  people.    Ai  one  held  in  the  O^eechee 

10  '^a 


I 


A  HWVOmT  OF  TWI  [1823. 

district,  in  the  state  of  Georgia,  not  less  than  one  hun- 
dred white  and  upward  of  forty  colored  people  were 
made  partakers  of  the  grace  of  life.  At  one  held  in 
the  same  place  last  year  a  work  of  God  commenced 
among  the  students  of  Tabernacle  Academy,  a  Uterary 
institution  under  our  care,  and  the  reformation  was  ad- 
vancing among  the  students  this  year  most  encou- 
ragingly. 

At  five  camp  meetings  held  in  the  Baltimore  district 
for  this  year  the  Lord  poured  out  his  Spirit,  and  about 
one  hundred  and  twenty,  white  and  colored,  professed 
to  find  the  pearl  of  great  price,  among  whom  were  two 
females,  one  eighty  and  the  other  sixty  years  of  age. 
The  latter  was  a  Quakeress,  whose  charming  simplicity 
of  manners  and  conversation,  after  her  conversion,  re- 
minded one  of  the  primitive  days  of  Christianity.  Such 
evidences  of  the  power  of  grace  were  not  unlike  the 
Pentecostal  showers  of  divine  mercy,  and  they  tended 
mightily  to  strengthen  the  faith  of  God's  people,  and  to 
baflle  the  speculations  of  an  infidel  philosophy. 

We  have  already  seen  that  the  cause  of  education 
began  to  engage  the  attention  of  some  of  the  annual 
conferences,  and  that  two  academies  had  been  put  in 
operation.  This  year  I  find  on  the  Minutes  of  tlie 
Kentucky  conference  that  John  P.  Pinley  was  ap- 
pointed to  the  charge  of  Augusta  College^  though  I 
believe  the  college  edifice  was  not  erected  until  1825. 
Our  brethren,  therefore,  west  of  the  mountains  have 
the  honor  of  founding  the  first  college  in  the  United 
States  under  the  patronage  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church ;  and  I  am  happy  to  say  that  this  institution 
has  gone  on  prospering,  though  sometimes  depressed 

fUy^tvi  v><w»«rkinr<r  AtYiKarrqciumnrttu    aVi'^'Inino'  ^n  tnni.  rCfflUn 


»n  thai  reffion 


1823.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  243 

of  country  the  blessings  of  science  and  religion,  greatly 
to  the  joy  of  its  friends  and  patrons. 

Forty-four  preachers  were  located,  forty-seven  re- 
turned supernumerary,  and  fifty-nine  superannuated, 
and  nine  had  died  during  the  past  year.  These  were, 
Phihp  Kennerly,  Walter  Griffith,  John  Dix,  ^«. 
muel  Davis,  William  Wright,  William  Ross,  Alon 
son  Gffford,  James  Griggs  Peal,  and  William  Penn 
Cnandler. 

A  strong  testimony  is  given  in  favor  of  these  devoted 
men  of  God,  that  in  their  last  days  they  maintained 
their  integrity,  triumphing  in  the  hour  of  dissolution, 
and  died  m  hope  of  the  glory  of  God. 

Dr.  Chandler*  was  appointed  the  *  presiding  elder  on 
the  Delaware  district  in  1801,  about  the  time  the  camp 
meetmgs  were  introduced  into  that  part  of  the  country 
and  his  talents  were  peculiarly  adapted  to  promote  their 
objecte.     His  zeal  in  the  cause  of  Christ  was  ardent, 
and  his  talents  as  a  preacher  were  more  than  ordinary 
and  often  the  most  astonishing  effects  were  produced 
under  his  powerful  appeals  to  the  consciences  of  his 
hearers.     In  consequence  of  his  devotion  to  the  cause, 
and  the  character  of  his  talents,  he  exerted  a  command- 
mg  influence  upon  his  district,  winning  the  affections 
and  inspinng  the  confidence  of  the  people  committed  to 
his  charge.     The  ardency  of  his  zeal  and  intensity  of ' 
his  labors  so  exhausted  his  physical  strength,  that  in 
18U8  he  was  returned  superannuated.     In   1813  he 
jeceived  a  location;  but  his  warm  attachments  to  his 
brethi-en  in  the  traveling  ministry  led  him  back  to  the 
I'liUadelphia  conference  in  May,  1922,  where  he  re- 

*  He  was  educated  for  a  nhvoS^u. 


C"J  JTivial 


244 


A   HISTORY   OF  THE 


[1823. 


inained  in  the  relation  of  a  superannuated  preacher 
until  his  death. 

While  preaching  the  gospel  of  the  Son  of  God  in  the 
Ebenezer  church,  in  the  city  of  Philadelphia,  on  the 
first  sabbath  of  May,  1820,  he  was  suddenly  prostrated 
by  a  paralytic  stroke  in  his  left  side.  Though  he  par- 
tially recovered  from  this,  yet  while  at  the  island  of  St. 
Eustatia,  whither  he  had  gone  for  the  benefit  of  his 
health,  a  second  stroke  deprived  him  of  the  use  of  his 
right  side  also,  which  took  from  him  and  his  friends  all 
1  ope  of  his  recovery.  He  returned  home,  however,  and 
lingered  for  about  twelve  weeks,  when  he  exchanged 
a  world  of  labor  and  suffering  for  a  world  of  rest  and 
reward.  His  expressions  upon  his  death-bed  were  no 
less  consolatory  to  his  friends  than  they  were  satisfac- 
tory to  himself  On  being  told  by  a  f^^iend  that  it  was 
Sunday,  he  repHed,  "  Go  then  to  the  meeting,  and  tell 
them  that  I  am  dying,  shouting  the  praises  of  God !" 
Then,  turning  to  his  wife,  he  said,  "  My  dear  Mary, 
open  the  window,  and  let  me  proclaim  to  the  people  in 
the  streets  the  goodness  of  God  !" 

The  following  testimony  is  from  an  affectionate  bro- 
ther, a  physician,  who  attended  him  much  in  his  last 
sickness : — 

"  I  visited  Dr.  Chandler  daily  during  his  last  illness, 
which  was  of  long  continuanco.  His  disease  was  an  al- 
most universal  paralysis.  The  attack  had  at  first  been 
confined  to  ono  side,  and  after  a  partial  recovery  only  of 
that  side,  the  other  became  afliected  in  like  manner  with 
the  first.  His  mind  as  well  as  his  body  felt  the  effects  of 
the  disease,  which  at  times  caused  a  considerable  de- 
rangement of  intellect :  but  notwithstanding  the  confusion 
that  was  apparent  in  his  mental  operations,  his  constant 


It 


1823.]  METH0DI3T   EPISCOPAL   CHCRCH.  345 

Aerae  wa,  hi,  God  and  Ae  salvation  of  his  soul ;  and  on 

„.,.  I  "uDjects,  yet  on  that  of  rehgion,  at  inter- 

vals he  never  conversed  with  more  fluency;  oo^ectneL 
and  fcehng  at  any  period  of  his  life.  He  ^earedrie 
exceedmgly  jealous  of  himself,  and  occasionally  lab^rin. 

L thouW  fi:l:  ™''"  '^™  ''^"'™'^  himselff  and  :ha 
he  should  finally  become  a  cast-away ;  but  of  these  appre- 

hens,ons  he  was  generally  relieved  whenever  wT  ap 
p  oached  a  throne  of  grace,  which  we  were  in  thl  habh 
ofdomgon  almost  every  visit  In  .hi.  '""""">  n^w' 
until  within  .  f      J         J ,  "  "*'*  '>«  remained 

until  within  a  few  days  of  his  death,  when  the  Lord  was 

graciously  pleased,  in  a  most  extraordinary  manTerTo 
our  out  his  Spirit  upon  his  servant;  and^llthoughhU 
Wy  was  fast  sinking,  his  mind,  for  two  days,  was  relred 
to  perfect  vigor  and  correctness.     During  this  t  me  h 

rir  0?  tt'^r  """T " '"« -4  inhXc': 

heaX  as  thn  t  f  ?!■'  ^  J"^''  '"''  *«  '"habitants  of 
Heaven  as  though  he  had  been  in  the  midst  of  them      H« 

Zn^ll'  '"•'"'  '™^'  *"'  "«  f«"  "-at  wt  s"u.  h!d 
begun  to  dissolve  its  connection  with  tho  body:  and  that 
'here  was  a  freedom,  a  clearness,  and  ease  fn  i^vi  ws 

tod, over  before  formed  a  conception  of-' in  fact •  said 
he,  'I  know  not  whether  I  am  in  the  body  or  out  of  i- 

'"ncerning  them  that  are  asleep  and  that  T7  ' 

"Others  whieh  ha.e  „„  kop,^'  ""' "' "■^'>«>  «"  «-«• 

'"'    account  of  his  death  concludes 


words : — 


the  followinir 


246  A    HISTORY   OF   THE  [1823. 

"  As  a  Christian,  and  as  a  Christian  minister,  W.  P. 
Chandler  was  a  man  of  no  ordinary  grade.  In  his  deport- 
ment, dignity  and  humility,  fervor  and  gentleness,  plain- 
ness and  brotherly  kindness,  with  uniform  piety,  were 
strikingly  exemplified.  In  the  pulpit  his  soul  was  in  his 
eloquence,  his  Saviour  was  his  theme,  and  the  divine  unc- 
tion that  rested  upon  him,  and  the  evangelical  energy  of 
his  sermons,  gave  a  success  to  his  labors  that  has  been 
exceeded  by  few.  He  studied  to  show  himself  approved 
unto  God,  a  workman  that  needed  not  to  he  ashamed,  rightly 
dividing  the  word  of  truth :  and  how  good  a  proficient  he 
was  in  this  study,  thousands  who  were  blessed  under  his 
ministry  can  heartily  testify,  many  of  whom  are  living 
witnesses  of  the  happy  effects  of  his  labors,  while  he  is 
now  reaping  his  eternal  reward." 

Among  others  who  departed  to  another  world  this 
year  was  John  Steward,  who  first  carried  the  gospel  to 
the  Wyandot  Indians.  Of  his  early  life  we  have  seea 
something  in  our  account  of  the  Wyandot  mission.  He 
seems  to  have  been  peculiarly  fitted  for  his  work.  Sin- 
cere, simple-hearted,  much  devoted  to  the  cause  in 
which  he  had  engaged,  he  adapted  himself  with  a  ready 
and  willing  mind  to  the  condition  and  circumstances 
of  those  people,  won  their  confidence  and  affection  by 
his  honest  simplicity,  and,  by  the  blessing  of  God  on 
his  exertions,  conducted  them  away  from  the  absurdi- 
ties of  heathenism  by  the  charms  of  gospel  truth  and 
love. 

His  entire  devotion  to  the  interests  of  the  mission,  his 
intense  application  to  meet  its  spiritual  wants,  and  the 
privations  to  which  he  was  subjected  in  his  early  resi- 
dence among  them,  so  wore  upon  his  constitution,  that 
in  the  course  of  this  year  it  became  manifest  that  his 
3 


247 


1823.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH. 

health  was  tast  declining,  and  that  the  days  of  his  pil- 
grimage were  near  their  end. 

When  80  exhausted  in  his  physical  powers  as  to  be 
unable  to  labor  for  his  support,  his  temporal  wants  were 
pi-ovided  for  by  his  friends,  about  fifty  acres  of  land,  on 
which  was  built  a  cabin  for  his  accommodation,  being 
secured  to  him  in  fee-simple.     Here  he  lived  the  re- 
mainder of  his  days,  and  on  his  demise  the  property  was 
inherited   by  his  brother.    In  this  place,  loved  and 
honored  by  those  who  had  been  benefited  by  his  evan- 
gelical labors,  he  lingered  along  the  shores  of  mortality 
until  December  the  17th,  1823,  when  he  fell  asleep  in 
Jesus,  in  the  thirty-seventh  year  of  his  age,  and  the 
seventh  of  his  labors  in  the  missionary  field.     On  nis 
death-bed  he  gave  the  most  consoling  evidence  of  his 
faith  in  Christ  and  hope  of  immortality,  exhorting  his 
affectionate  wife  to  faithfulness  to  her  Lord  and  Master 
and  testifying  with  his  latest  breath  to  the  goodness  of 
God. 

In  the  contemplation  of  such  a  man,  we  cannot  but 
admire  the  wisdom  of  God  in  the  selection  of  means  to 
accomplish  his  designs  of  mercy  toward  the  outcasts  of 
men.  Born  in  humble  life,  destitute  of  the  advantages 
of  education,  unauthorized  and  unprotected  by  any 
body  of  Christians  when  he  first  entered  upon  his  en- 
terprise, influenced  solely  by  the  impulses  of  his  own 
mmd,  produced,  as  he  believed,  and  as  the  event  proved 
by  the  dictates  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  Steward  sets  off  on  an 
errand  of  mercy  to  the  wandering  savages  of  the  wil- 
derness. Here  he  arrives,  a  stranger  among  a  strange 
people,  and  opens  his  mission  by  a  simple  narration  of 
the  experience  of  divine  grace  upon  his  heart,  and  of 
<he  motives  which  prompted  him  to  foreake  home  and 


1^    il 


248 


A   HISTORY   OP   THE 


[1823. 


kindred,  and  devote  himself  to  their  spiritual  interests 
Having  gained  their  attention,  he  explains  to  them,  in 
the  simplest  language  of  truth,  the  fundamental  doc- 
trines of  Jesus  Christ,  contrasting  them  with  the  ab- 
surdities of  heathenism  and  the  mummeries  of  a  cor- 
rupted form  of  Christianity.*  No  sooner  does  the  word 
take  effect,  than  a  violent  opposition  arises  against  this 
humble  and  unpretending  servant  of  Jesus  Christ, 
which  he  meets  with  Christian  courage,  and  beare  with 
the  fortitude  of  a  well-trained  soldier  of  the  cross.  By 
the  strength  of  God  resting  upon  him,  he  manfully 
buffets  the  storms  of  persecution  which  raged  around 
him,  and  calmly  guides  his  little  bark  over  the  threat 
ening  billows  until  it  is  conducted  into  a  harbor  of 
peace  and  safety.  Seeking  for  the  wisdom  that  cometh 
from  above,  he  is  enabled  to  unravel  the  sophistry  of 
error,  to  refute  the  calumnies  of  falsehood,  to  silence  the 
cavilings  of  captious  witlings,  and  to  establish  firmly 
the  truth  as  it  is  in  Jesus.  Did  not  God  "choose  the 
weak  tilings  of  the  world  to  confound  the  things  which 
are  mighty  ?'* 

Who  does  not  look  on  with  a  trembling  anxiety  for 
the  result,  while  the  umpire  was  deliberating  upon  his 
fate,  at  that  memorable  time  when  he  submitted  his 
Bible  and  Hymn  Book  to  the  inspection  of  Mr.  Walker, 
that  he  might  determine  whether  or  not  they  were  ge- 
nuine! And  who  can  forbear  participating  in  the 
general  shout  of  exultation  when  the  momentous  ques- 
tion was  decided  in  his  favor !  During  these  anxious 
moments  the  heart  of  Steward  must  have  beat  high 
amidst  hopes  and  fears,  while  the  fete  of  his  mission 

•  The  WyandoU  had  been  taught,  to  some  extent,  the 
religion  of  the  Roman  Catholics. 


1823  ]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  24ft 

appurontly  hung  poised  upon  the  decision  of  a  question 
which  involved  the  dearest  interests  of  the  nation  for 
whoso  welfare  he  had  risked  his  all !  But  the  God  whom 
he  served  pleaded  his  cause,  silenced  the  clamor  of  his 
enemies,  disappointed  the  machinations  of  the  wicked 
and  gave  a  signal  triumph  to  the  virtues  of  honesty! 
snnphcity,  and  godly  sincerity.*    In  this  tri-ymph  was 

*  y/'«^/,»;o  reader  may  understand  the  force  of  this  allu- 
«u>n,  the  fol  owing  incident  is  related.    As  Steward  fealtlv 

rdToth  SiM^"^''"'''"'  *'^  "^"^•^'^  Church  and  p^ 
ptaled  to  the  B,b  e  in  support  of  his  affirmations,  those  unin- 
formed natives  who  had  been  instructed  by  Romanprie  ts 
concluded  that  there  must  be  a  discrepance  between  his  B  ! 

c  and  the  one  used  by  the  priests.  To  decide  this  questio  i 
u  was  mutually  agreed  by  the  parties  to  submi  i?  to  m7 
Walker  the  sub-agent.    On  a  day  appointed  for  h"  exami' 

tnostn  arbiter.    A  profound  silence  reigned  among  the  nu- 
merous spectators  who  had  assembled  to  witness  "he  scene 
Mr.  Walker  carefully  compared  the  two  bS   and  eia: 

Mr  w„l^  ?  ,  ^^  ^^"^^^  *^^  examination  closed,  and 
Mr.  Walker  declared  to  the  assembly  that  the  Bible  used 

ITLfJ^T  '^'''"-  ^"""»  ^^'^  ^»»«le  transaction  Stew- 
Sr  r^'"'""'^"'  conscious  that  innocence  and  truth 
lenaiices  of  the  Christian  party  beamed  with  iov  and  their 

2  T'i"'.  '"."""^  '''''''  Saviour-.while  thefr  oppo^ts 
stood  rebuked  and  confounded.  "Pposers 

Trn^''°"i^  i** V^^®'"^'y '^^^°''«  whom  Steward  appeared  in 

bet;  Whom  t^r^  ''''  '""T'  ^"'^  ^-"P--^  thrthe  one 
Deiore  whom  Luther  appeared,  at  the  Diet  of  Wormq  vot  th« 

Sre^tttr'  ''T  fr'  ^^'  no  leTsTo^rt 

to  hfm  oT?  ^  ^"""^  *^^  admirable  address  of  Luther  was 

our  mmds  the  two  personaffes  who  h«d  InhmiH-!^  ♦k.:-        '' 

— 1»«'!.-«  MICH  i;au36 


.1' 


200  A   HISTORY  OF  THS  [1823. 

fulfilled  thfl  inspired  and  inspiring^  declamlion,  ''One 
simll  chase  a  thousand,  and  two  shall  put  ten  thousand 
to  ilight." 

to  the  decidions  of  others,  we  may  not  unprofitably  compare 
thom  ns  being  analogous  in  their  consequences  to  their  re- 
spective nations.  Luther,  towering  above  his  fellov^s  in 
luurning,  in  eloquence,  in  piety,  and  in  evangelical  know- 
ledge, was  pleading  the  cause  of  truth  before  one  of  the  nuxst 
august  asKvunblios  ever  convened  to  decide  the  fate  of  an  in- 
dividual. Steward,  unlettered,  rude  in  speech,  limited  in 
knowledge,  though  humble  and  devout,  was  silently  looking 
on  while  his  fate  hung  suspended  upon  the  decision  of  a  sin- 
glj  man.  liow  striking  the  contrast !  And  yet  now  analo- 
gous the  cause  ai;d  its  results !  Luther,  surrounded  by 
princes,  nobles,  judges,  bishops,  and  priests,  awed  by  tlie 
presence  oi  the  emperor  of  all  Germany  and  Spain  combined, 
in  one  of  the  most  magnificent  cathedrals  in  the  kingdom, 
stood  firm  in  the  strengtli  of  his  God,  and  fearlessly  advocated 
his  causo  in  the  face  of  that  imposing  array  of  civil  and  ec- 
clesiastical authority  which  was  leagued  against  him.  Stew- 
ard, on  the  contrary,  accompanied  by  a  few  converted 
Indians,  stood  in  the  presence  of  the  chiefs  of  the  nation, 
most  of  whom  had  declared  themselves  adverse  to  his  doc- 
trines and  measures,  surrounded  by  an  assemblage  of  rude 
barbarians  in  the  rough  cabin  of  an  American  Indian !  Those 
Germans,  however,  who  had  embraced  the  principles  of  tlio 
Ket'ormatiou  were  not  more  inierested  in  the  fate  of  Luther, 
than  iho  trembling  Indians  who  had  embraced  Christianity 
were  for  tlo  result  of  the  deliberations  of  Mr.  Walker. 

ihit  while  Lot!;  3r  and  his  doctrines  were  condemned  by  a 
decree  of  the  Diet  of  Worms,  Steward  was  acquitted  by  the 
decision  of  the  umpire  to  whom  the  question  had  been  sub- 
mitted. Luther,  therefore,  had  to  act  in  opposition  to  the 
highest  authority  of  the  empire,  with  the  fulminating  sen- 
tence of  the  pope  ringing  in  his  ears,  while  Steward  went 
forih  under  the  protection  of  the  chief  council  of  the  nation, 
patronized  by  the  Church  of  his  choice,  preaching  Jesus  and 
iiim  crucified.  Was  not  God's  hand  alike  visible  in  each 
case '?  Nor  was  Steward  more  contemptible  in  the  eyes  of 
the  pagan  chieftains  than  Luther  was  in  the  estimation  oi  the 
3 


1823.] 


METHODIST    BJ'ISOOPAL    CHURCH. 


251 


ian !    Those 


In  nil  the  subsequent  conduct  of  Steward  we  behold 
a  combination  of  those  excellences  which  the  Spirit  of 
God  alone  can  ingraft  and  nourish  in  the  human  heart. 
«  The  excellency  of  the  power,"  therefore,  which  was 
conspicuous  in  the  life  and  conduct  of  Steward,  reflec  -d 
the  rays  of  Him  who  had  most  evidently  made  him  -  a 
choserj  vessel  to  bear  his  name  unto  the  Gentiles"  in 
the  American  wilds.  Humble  and  unpretending  as  he 
was,  his  name  will  ever  be  associated  with  those  men 
of  God  who  had  the  high  honor  of  first  carrying  the 
light  of  divine  truth  to  the  darkened  tribes  of  our  forests. 
And  this  record  is  made  as  a  just  tribute  of  respect  to 
the  memory  of  one  whom  God  delighted  to  honor  as 
the  evangelical  pioneer  to  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church  in  her  career  of  usefulness  among  the  long 
neglected  children  of  our  own  wide  domain. 

Number  of  Church  members. 
Whiles.  Colored.  Total. 

This  year      267,618        44,922       312,540 
Last  year      252,645        44,377       297,022 


Preachers. 

1,226 
1,106 


Increase       14,973 


545 


15,518*      120 


pope  and  his  obsequious  cardinals  and  bishops.  And  per- 
li<ips  the  time  may  come  when  the  name  of  John  Steward, 
as  humble  as  were  his  claims  in  his  lifetime,  shall  be  held  in 
as  high  estimation  by  the  descendants  of  the  converted  In- 
dians, as  is  that  of  Martin  Luther  by  the  church  which  bears 
his  name.  They  both  had  faults,  because  they  were  both 
human  beings ;  but  let  their  faults  be  buried  beneath  the 
same  turf  which  hides  their  mouldering  bodies  from  human 
view,  while  their  spirits,  alike  indebted  to  the  blood  of  the 
Lamb  for  their  deliverance  from  the  slavery  of  sin,  shall 
shine  amidst  the  heavens  for  ever  and  ever. 

*  There  is  an  error  in  the  printed  Minutes  of  not  less  than 
610,  there  being  that  number  more  in  the  real  increase  than 
»s  given  in  the  Minutes. 

3 


252 


A   HISTORY  OF   THB 


[1824. 


l^t    ' 


^i}'' 


CHAPTER  VII. 

General  Conference  of  1894. 

1824.  This  conference  assembled,  on  the  first  day  of , 
May,  in  the  city  of  Baltimore.  Bishops  M'Kendree, 
George,  and  Roberts  were  present,  and  the  former 
opened  the  conference  by  reading  a  portion  of  the  Holy 
Scriptures,  singing,  and  prayer.  The  following  dele- 
gates presented  the  certificates  of  their  election  by  the 
several  annual  conferences : — 

New'York  Conference. 
Freeborn  Garrettson,  John  B.  Straiten, 


Samuel  Merwin, 
Nathan  Bangs, 
Eben  Smith, 
Daniel  Ostrander, 
Ebenezer  Washburn, 
Peter  P.  Sandford, 


Henrj'  Stead, 
Marvin  Richardson, 
Stephen  Martindale, 
Phineas  Rice, 
Arnold  Scholefield, 
Laban  Clark, 
William  Ross. 


Samuel  Luckey, 

Nevo-England  Conference. 
George  Pickering,  Wilbur  Fisk, 


Elijah  Hedding, 
Timothy  Merritt, 
Enoch  Mudge, 
Joseph  A.  Merrill, 
David  Kilboum, 
John  Lindsey, 


Fitch  Reed, 

Joseph  Baker, 

Wyatt  Chambeilain, 
3 


Elisha  Streeter, 
Ebenezer  Blake, 
Edward  Hyde, 
Eleazar  Wells, 
John  W.  Hardy, 
Benjamin  R.  Hoyt. 
Genesee  Conference. 

George  Peck, 
Israel  Chamberlain, 
George  W.  Densmoor, 


1824.] 


METHODIST  EPISCOPAL  CHURCH. 


293 


John  P.  Alverson, 
James  Hall, 
Gideon  Lanning, 


Charles  Elliott, 
Jolm  F.  Wright, 
Groenbury  R.  Jones, 
Martin  Ruter, 
Charles  Waddel, 
James  B.  Finley, 


Isaac  B.  Smith, 
Jjoring  Grant, 
Benjamin  G.  Paddock 

Ohio  Conference. 

Jacob  Young, 
John  Sale, 
James  Quiun, 
John  Waterman, 
Russel  Bigelow, 
David  Young, 

John  Strange. 

Kentucky  Conference. 
Jonathan  Stamper,  Peter  Cartwright, 

Thomas  A.  Morris,  Richard  Corwine, 

Charles  HoUiday,  George  M'NoUy, 

John  Brown,  Marcus  Lindsay. 

Missouri  Conference. 
William  Beauchamp,  Samuel  H.  Thompson, 

David  Sharp,  John  Scripps, 

Jesse  Walker. 

Tennessee  Conference. 
Hartwell  H.  Brown,  George  Ekin, 

Thomas  Stringfield,  Joshua  W.  Kilpatrick, 

William  M'Mahon,  Jolm  Tevis, 

Robert  Paine,  Thomas  L.  Douglass, 

Thomas  Madden. 
Mississippi  Conference. 
Alexander  Sale,  William  Winans, 

Daniel  De  Vinne. 
South  Carolina  Conference. 
Lewis  Myers,  William  Capers, 

Nicholas  Talloy,  James  O.  Andrew, 

Samuel  K.  Hodges,  Samuel  Dunwody, 

James  Norton,  William  M.  Kennedy, 


m 


254  A   HISTORY    OP   THl 

Lovick  Pierce,  Joseph  Travis, 

Henry  Bass. 

Virginia  Conference. 
Caleb  Leach,  Henry  Holmes, 

Lewis  Skidmore,  Ethelbert  Drake, 

Hezekiah  G.  Leigh,  John  Lattimore, 

Benjamin  Devaney,  William  Compton, 

John  C.  Ballcw. 

Baltimore  Conference. 
Andrew  Hemphill,  Henry  Smith, 


[1824 


James  M'Cann, 
Daniel  Hitl, 
Joshua  Soiile, 
Stephen  G.  Roszel, 
Joseph  Frye, 


Richard  Tydings, 
Nelson  Reed, 
Robert  Burch, 
John  Thomas, 
Christopher  Frye, 
John  Bear. 


Philadelphia  Conference. 
Thomas  Ware,  John  Smith, 

Lawrence  Lawrenson, 
Manning  Force, 
Thomas  Neal, 
Lawrence  M'Combs, 
Ezekiel  Cooper, 


Jacob  Moore, 
John  Potts, 
Joseph  Rusling, 
Charles  Pittman, 
Alvard  White, 


James  Smith. 

From  the  time  that  Dr.  Coke  had  last  visited  us,  in 
1804,  no  personal  intercourse  had  been  kept  up  between 
the  European  and  American  connections,  though 
friendly  epistolary  salutations  had  been  exchanged.  In 
1820,  as  we  have  before  seen,  a  delegate.  Dr.  Emory, 
had  been  sent  to  the  Wesleyan  conference  iu  England, 
and  had  borne  with  him  a  request  that  a  personal  in- 
tercourse might  be  established,  at  such  times  as  should 


«_- J. II i.i^ 

8 


1824.J 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH. 


255 


our  British  brethren  sent  the  Rev.  Richard  Reece  as  a 
representative  to  this  General  Conference,  accompanied 
by  the  Rev.  John  Hannah  as  his  ministerial  companion. 
As  these  respected  brethren  had  arrived  in  the  city  of 
New- York  in  the  month  of  March,  they  had  spent  the 
intervening  time  in  visiting  Boston,  Lynn,  New-Haven, 
Philadelphia,  and  other  places,  where  they  had  en- 
deared themselves  to  the  people  by  their  Christian  and 
ministerial  deprtment,  as  well  as  by  their  evangelical 
labors  in  the  pulpit,  and  on  the  platform  at  several  of 
our  anniversaries. 

On  the  second  day  of  the  conference  they  were  in- 
troduced by  Bishop  M'Kendree.  w^en  Mr.  Reece  pre- 
sented the  following  address  from  the  Wesleyan  Me- 
thodist conference,  which  was  read  by  the  secretary,  Dr. 
Emory : — 

"  To  the  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church  assembled  at  Baltimore,  in  the  United  States 
of  America. 

"  Dear  Brethren  : — The  time  has  arrived  which  calls 
us,  in  pursuance  of  a  resolution  unanimously  passed  in  the 
conference  of  1820,  held  in  Liverpool,  to  commission  a 
deputation  from  our  body,  to  attend  your  ensuing  General 
Conference,  to  convey  to  you  the  sentiments  of  our  fra- 
ternal regard  and  affectionate  attachment,  and  to  recipro- 
cate that  kind  and  friendly  office  which,  on  your  part,  was 
performed  by  the  visit  of  one  of  your  esteemed  ministers, 
the  Rev.  John  Emory. 

"  The  increased  interest  in  your  spiritual  welfare  which 
the  establishment  of  this  mode  of  direct  and  official  com- 
munication between  the  two  (Treat  bodies  of  Methodists 
has  naturally  excited  in  us,  and  reciprocally,  we  believe, 

in  VOU.  is  tn  im   thn    Cwat    nrcu\(  nf  Ua   Uanotir^i..i   f^n^^..^,. 

i-      —  —    —    I •    "^     ^'-T    .^?-»_-£i-»_-iivit£j:    trvii'^imv  T , 

s 


h 


p., 


256  A   HISTORT   OP   THE  [1824. 

and  a  cheering  indication  of  its  future  advantages.  For 
why  should  the  ocean  entirely  sever  the  branches  of  the 
same  family,  or  distance  of  place,  and  distinct  scenes  of 
labor,  wholly  prevent  thi\t  interchange  of  the  sympathies 
of  a  special  spiritual  relationship  which  cannot  but  be  felt 
by  those  who,  under  God,  owe  their  origin  to  the  labors 
of  the  same  apostolic  man,  bear  testimony  to  the  same 
great  truths  before  the  world,  and  whose  efforts  to  spread 
the  savor  of  the  knowledge  of  Christ,  on  our  part,  through 
the  British  empire,  and  on  yours  through  the  population 
of  those  rising  states  which  have  derived  their  language, 
their  science,  and  their  Protestantism  from  the  same  com- 
mon source,  Almighty  God  has  deigned  so  abundantly  to 
bless  ? 

''  We  received  with  heart-felt  joy  the  messenger  of  your 
churches,  the  Rev.  John  Emory,  bearing  the  grateful  news 
of  the  progress  of  the  work  of  God  in  your  societies,  and 
were  refreshed  by  the  expressions  of  your  charity.  We 
now  commit  the  same  charge  to  the  faithful  and  beloved 
brethren  whom  we  have  appointed  to  salute  you  in  the 
Lord,  that  nothing  may  be  wanting  on  our  part  to  strengthen 
the  bond  of  brotherly  love,  and  to  call  forth  mutual  and 
united  prayers  for  each  other's  welfare,  by  a  mutual  know- 
ledge of  each  other's  state. 

"  We  are  on  the  point  of  closing  the  sittings  of  the  pre- 
sent conference,  in  which  the  perfect  harmony  of  the 
brethren  assembled  has  afforded  matter  for  the  most  devout 
and  grateful  acknowledgments  to  God,  both  as  it  is  the 
indication  and  the  result  of  that  entire  affection  and  unity 
which  exist  among  our  societies  throughout  the  united 
kingdom.  Through  the  mercy  of  God,  we  have  rest  on 
every  side  ;  the  discipline  we  received  from  our  venerable 
founder  is  still  enforced  with  unabated  zeal,  and,  under  a 
conviction  of  its  agreement  with  the  word  of  God,  cheer- 
fully observed ;  the  value  of  those  anostolic  doctrines 
8 


[1824. 

tages.  For 
ches  of  tlie 
:  scenes  of 
sympathies 
t  but  be  felt 
>  the  labors 

0  the  same 
ts  to  spread 
tart,  through 

1  population 
ir  language, 

same  com- 
undantly  to 

iger  of  your 
ateful  news 
cieties,  and 
larity.  We 
md  beloved 
you  in  the 
)  strengthen 
mutual  and 
utual  know- 

1  of  the  prc- 
lony  of  the 
most  devout 

as  it  is  the 
n  and  unity 

the  united 
lave  rest  on 
ir  venerable 
nd,  under  a 
God,  cheer- 
c   doctrines 


1824.]  METHODIST  EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  257 

which  distinguish  us  in  the  old  and  new  world  was  never 
we  believe,  more  powerfully  felt  among  us,  and  never 
were  they  with  greater  fidelity  exhibited  in  out  public 
mimstry ;  and,  as  a  crowning  blessing,  numbers  are  yearly 
added  to  us  and  to  the  Lord,  and  the  light  and  influence 
of  the  gospel  are  yearly  extending,  by  the  divine  blessing 
upon  the  labors  of  the  brethren,  into  the  still  dark  and 
uncultivated  parts  of  our  beloved  country.  « Not  unto  us, 
0  Lord,  not  unto  us,  but  unto  thy  name  give  glory,  for  thv 
mercy  and  for  thy  truth's  sake.' 

"  You  will  also,  dear  brethren,  partake  of  our  joy  in 
the  success  with  which  it  has  pleased  God  to  attend  the 
labors  of  our  brethren  in  our  different  foreign  missions. 

"  The  leading  particulars  of  their  state  and  prospects 
you  will  have  learned  from  our  Magazine  and  annual  re- 
ports,  and  it  will  therefore  suffice  to  state,  that,  in  this 
department  of  the  work  of  God  committed  to  our  charae 
upward  of  one  hundred  and  fifty  of  our  preachers  are  em- 
ployed; and  that  the  zeal  and  liberality  with  which  our 
people  and  the  friends  of  religion  generally  co-operate 
with  us  m  this  hallowed  work,  answer  to  every  call  and 
seem  only  roused  to  greater  activity  and  enlargement  as 
the  sad  condition  of  the  pagan  world  is  by  new  develop- 
ments displayed  before  them.     In  the  formation  of  regular 
missionary  societies  in  your  Church,  to  promote  the  uni- 
versal establishment  of  the  kingdom  of  our  adorable  Sa- 
viour, and  '  to  make  all  men  see  what  is  the  fellowship  of 
the  mystery  which  from  the  beginning  of  the  world  hath 
been  hid  in  God,'  -ve  have  greatly  rejoiced;  and  in  those 
encouraging  dawnings  of  large  success  among  the  abori- 
gmal  tribes  of  your  native  continent,  which  have  cheered 
the  early  efforts  of  those  devoted  men  whom  you  have 
ordamed  to  this  blessed  service.    In  addition  to  the  doctrines 
in  which  we  have  been  instructed,  God  has  in  his  mercy 

it  8 


M 


ms 


A    HISTOKY    OF   THE 


[1834. 


giTen  to  118,  as  Methodists,  a  discipline  adapted  in  a  very 
special  manner  to  missionary  operations,  to  build  up  and 
establish  infant  religious  societies  among  heathen,  and  to 
call  forth  in  every  place  a  supply  of  laborers  for  extending 
the  work,  and  enlarging  the  cultivated  field  into  the  untilled 
and  neglected  wilderness.  In  the  spirit  of  om:  great 
founder  under  God,  who  regarded  the  whole  world  as  his 
parish,  let  the  Methodists  of  Great  Britain  and  America 
regard  the  whole  world  as  the  field  of  their  evangelical 
labors  ;  and,  mindful  of  this  our  high  vocation,  let  us  enter 
in  at  every  open  door,  trusting  in  God  to  dispose  the 
hearts  of  our  people  to  provide  the  means  necessary  to 
carry  our  sacred  enterprises  into  effect ;  striving  together 
in  our  prayers,  that  from  us  the  word  of  the  Lord  may 
•  sound  forth  to  nations  and  kingdoms  of  men,  of  all  colors 
and  climates,  now  involved  in  the  ignorance  and  misery 
of  pagan  idolatry,  and  sitting  in  darkness  and  the  shadow 
of  death.' 

"  More  fully  to  declare  unto  you  our  state,  and  to  be 
witnesses  of  *  the  grace  of  Grod  in  you,'  we  have  appointed, 
and  hereby  do  accredit  as  our  representative  to  your  ap- 
proaching General  Conference,  the  Rev.  Richard  Reece, 
late  president  of  our  conference,  and  have  requested  the 
Rev.  John  Hannah,  one  of  our  respected  junior  preachers, 
to  accompany  him  on  this  service.  '  Beloved  in  the  Lord 
and  approved  in  Christ,*  we  commit  them  to  the  grace  of 
God  and  to  your  brotherly  affection.  We  earnestly  pray 
that  your  approaching  assembly  may  be  under  the  special 
guidance  and  benediction  of  our  common  Head,  and  that 
all  your  deliberations  may  issue  in  the  lasting  union  and 
prosperity  of  your  numerous  and  widely  extended  socie- 
ties ;  that  you  may  increase  in  faith  and  love ;  and  that 
your  labors  may,  year  after  year,  continue  to  enlarge  and 
establish  in  the  western  world  the  kingdom  of  our  Lord 
3 


[1834. 

i  in  a  very 
lild  up  and 
tien,  and  to 
r  extending 
the  nntilled 

our  great 
)orld  as  his 
id  America 
evangelical 
let  us  enter 
iispose  the 
ecessary  to 
ng  together 

Lord  may 
Df  all  colors 
and  misery 
the  shadow 

),  and  to  be 
B  appointed, 
to  your  ap- 
lard  Reece, 
quested  the 
r  preachers, 
in  the  Lord 
he  grace  of 
rnestly  pray 
the  special 
Bid,  and  that 
5  union  and 
nded  socie- 
e ;  and  that 
enlarge  and 
>f  our  Lord 


1824.]  METH0DI8T   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  259 

and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ, '  to  whom  be  glory  in  the  church 
throughout  all  ages,  world  without  end.    Amen.» 
"  Signed  in  behalf  of  the  conference, 

«  ai  vjp  w    A  "  ^-  MocRE,  President, 

i^neffield,  August  11,  1823." 

the'foUoSr'!!'"^  ""^  '^'  ^^^'''''  ^'-  ^^"^  ^^^'""^'^^ 

"Mr.  President  .—The  paper  which  has  just  been 
read  is  an  expression  of  the  sentiments  avowed  by  the 
British  conference,  and  in  which  I  heartily  concur  ;isen- 
timents  of  affectionate  concern  for   the    prosperity   and 
advantage  of  our  brethren  on  this  side  of  the  Atlantic.     It 
afforded  us  much  satisfaction  to  receive  from  you,  by  your 
excellent  deputy,  the  Rev.  John  Emory,  an  overture  to 
more  frequent  intercourse  and  closer  fellowship  of  bro- 
therly love.     Wesleyan  Methodism  is  one  everywhere  - 
one  m  its  doctrines,  its  discipline,  its  usages.     We  believe 
It  to  be  the  purest,  simplest,  most  efficient  form  of  Chris- 
tianity  that  the  world  has  known  since  the  primitive  days. 
Doubtless  It  IS  that  which  has  had  the  sanction  of  Almighty 
God.  in  Its  rapid  and  extended  success,  beyond  any  other 
in  r      I ''""""'     ^'  ^^™'"^'^<'«d,  nearly  a  century  ago, 
n  the  mother  country,  in  one  of  her  universities,  with  a 

Z^^Zl^  "'''"'  ''^^''"  vessels,  meet  for  the  Master's 
"se.     Then  it  was  the  'cloud  little  as  a  human  hand ;' 
now  It  has  spread  widely,  and  is  still  spreading,  over  both 
hemispheres,  while  its  fertilizing  showers  are  descending 
upon  Europe,  America,  Africa,  and  Asia,  producing  fru^ 
wherever  they  fall--the  fruit  of  knowledge  and  hofines. 
Methodism  is  our  common  property.     We  are  alike  into- 
r    ted  m  its  preservation  and  diffusion.     It  is  a  sacred 
^ust  commuted  to  us.     h  is  a  heavenly  treasure  which 
2  have  to  dispense  for  the  benefit  of  man.     Its  spirit  is 
not  sectarian,  hut  ooth'^iu    -.«j •_  ^,   .    . 

3 


260  A   HISTORY   OF    THE  [1824. 

every  denomination  who  hold  the  essential  truths  of  the 
gospel,  and  'love  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  in  sincerity.'  Your 
brethren  in  England  were  never  more  concerned  to  preach 
its  distinguishing  doctrines  of  justification  by  faith,  the 
direct  witness  of  the  Spirit  in  the  hearts  of  believers,  and 
salvation  from  all  sin  in  this  life,  with  simplicity,  fidelity, 
and  zeal,  than  at  present ; — never  more  concerned  to  en- 
force its  discipline  with  firmness  and  love,  and  to  *  train 
up'  a  people  in  the  *  nurture  and  admonition  of  the  Lord ;' 
—never  more  careful  that  it  do  not  deteriorate  in  their 
hands,  but  that  it  be  transmitted,  pure  and  entire,  to  *  faith- 
ful men'  who  shall  succeed  to  their  labors:  for  which 
iiurpose  they  are  anxious  in  their  instruction  and'  strict  in 
their  examination  of  the  rising  race  of  preachers,  that 
thes:^  may  be  sound  in  the  faith  and  lovers  of  our  disci- 
pline. Many  of  them  are  all  we  can  hope,  young  men 
whose  *  profiting'  has  *  appeared  unto  all,'  and  to  whom  we 
can  commit  the  deposit  without  anxiety,  believing  that 
they  will  ♦  obtain  mercy  of  the  Lord  to  be  faithful.' 

"  The  result  of  this  care  and  pains  to  preserve  a  pure 
and  effective  ministry  has  been  and  is  seen  in  the  blessing 
of  God  upon  our  labors,  in  an  extension  of  his  work  through 
every  part  of  our  country,  where  '  gi^at  and  efiectual  doors' 
are  opening  into  new  places,  and  the  Lord  is  *  adding  to 
his  church  daily  such  as  are  saved.'  The  members  of  our 
society  are  also  improving  in  personal  holiness  and  zeal 
for  good  works.  They  are  more  ready  to  concur  with  us 
in  spreading  the  gospel  abroad  among  heathen  natiotis,  as 
well  as  in  tightening  the  '  cords'  of  our  discipline  at  home. 
On  the  whole,  our  prospects  were  never  more  bright,  nor 
had  we  ever  more  reason  to  be  encouraged. 

"  My  opportunities  of  intercourse  Wiwh  you  since  my 

arrival  in  this  country,  together  with  tlic  satisfaction  I  have 

had  in  attending  two  of  your  annual  ronferences,  where  I 

met  wif a  many  of  my  American  b-cthrenj  render  this  one 

8 


1824.]  METHODIST  EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  261 

of  the  most  interesting  periods  of  my  life.     I  have  wit- 
nessed the  disinterested  and  laborious  zeal  which  distin- 
guishes your  character  and  conduct.     I  have  seen  the  fruit 
of  your  labors  in  the  excellent  societies  in  New- York, 
Boston,  Philadelphia,  Winchester,  and  this  city.      The 
doctrines  and  discipline  of  Methodism,  when  rightly  ap- 
plied, do,  under  the  blessing  of  God,  produce  a  Scriptural 
conversion,  and   form   the   genuine    Christian   character 
everytohere;  and  either  at  home  or  abroad,  I  find  that  a 
Methodist,  who  lives  according  to  his  profession,  is  a  « fel- 
low-heir' of  the  same  '  grace  of  life.'     My  prayer  is,  in 
accordance  with  the  prayers  of  the  body  whom  I  repre- 
sent, that  you  may  go  on  and  prosper,  until,  as  the  honored 
instruments  of  God,  you  have  diffused  gospel  light  and  life 
through  every  part  of  this  vast  continent,  and  every  class 
of  its  interesting  population,  that  the  name  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ  may  be  everywhere  glorified  in  his  disciples, 
ilwicn." 

After  the  delivery  of  these  addresses,  and  adopting 
rules  for  the  government  of  the  deliberations  of  the 
conference,  the  following  communication  was  received 
from  the  bishops,  and  referred  to  appropriate  com- 
mittees : — 

"  To  the  delegates  of  the  several  annual  conferences  of 
the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  in  General  Conference 
assembled. 

"  Dear  Brethren  :— We  have  thought  it  advisable,  at 
the  opening  of  this  General  Conference,  to  communicate 
to  you  our  views  in  relation  to  some  of  the  subjects  which 
will  properly  come  before  you.  Assembled  as  you  are 
from  various  parts  of  the  continent,  and  having  been  asso- 
ciated with  societies  of  people  not  entirely  the  same  in 
manners  and  customs,  it  cannot  rationally  be  expected  that 
^  -_-  „..  ^.rx^zj  ouu|Vbc  siuuuxu  uv  uiiiiurmiy  ine  same. 


262  A   HISTORY   OP  THE  [1824. 

But,  after  candidly  considering  and  discussing  such  points 
of  interest  to  the  Church  as  may  require  your  at+*^ntion 
and  decision,  we  trust  you  will  be  able  to  unite  in  such 
measures  as  shall  best  serve  for  the  prosperity  of  our  Zion 
and  the  glory  of  God. 

"  During  the  last  four  years  we  have  not  been  favored 
with  extraordinary  revivals  of  religion,  yet  the  work  of 
God  has  gradually  advanced,  and  we  have  had  constant 
accessions  to  the  Church,  both  of  ministers  and  members, 
as  well  as  an  increase  of  circuits  and  districts.  On  the 
whole,  we  are  happy  to  say,  that  amidst  all  our  difficulties 
and  obstructions,  our  prospects  are  encouraging,  and  we 
are  permitted  to  hope  that  the  great  Head  of  the  church 
will  prosper  our  way  and  crown  our  labors  with  abundant 

success. 

"  Your  superintendents  have  endeavored  to  do  what  was 
in  their  power  toward  supplying  the  annual  conferences 
with  their  official  services,  and  have  in  most  instances 
succeeded ;  but,  owing  to  a  failure  of  health  in  some  of 
them,  and  to  other  uncontrollable  circumstances,  two  cases 
have  occurred  in  which  the  conferences  were  under  the 
necessity  of  providing  for  themselves.  And  as  the  present 
health  of  your  superintendents  is  more  likely  to  decline 
than  increase,  while  their  labor  will  beome  every  year 
more  extensive,  the  subjects  of  administration,  and  the 
propriety  of  increasing  the  number  of  superintendents,  will 
claim  your  early  attention. 

"  In  the  progress  .»f  this  work  new  doors  have  been 
opened  for  the  spread  of  the  gospel,  the  borders  of  our 
Zion  have  been  enlarged,  and  the  number  of  circuits  and 
districts  so  increased  as  to  render  it  necessary  that  there 
should  be  some  alterations  in  the  form  of  the  annual  con- 
ferences. The  way  seems  to  be  prepared  for  dividing 
some  in  order  to  form  new  ones,  and  for  making  some 
3 


1^4.]  MBTHObist  knmifJLL  CHURCH.  26^ 

changes  in  the  boundaries  of  others,  so  as  to  render  them 
more  convenient. 

"  On  the  subject  of  Church  government  some  of  our 
friends  have  entered  into  various  speculations,  and  it  seems 
probable  that  memorials  will  be  laid  before  you  both  from 
local  preachers  and  private  members.  In  order  to  give 
full  satisfaction,  as  far  as  possible,  on  this  point,  it  may  be 
expedient  to  appoint  a  committee  of  address,  to  prepare 
circulars  in  answer  to  such  memorials  as  may  be  presented. 

"  In  fixing  the  boundary  lines  of  the  annual  conferences. 
It  must  not  be  forgotten  that  a  part  of  our  charge  lies  in 
Canada,  beyond  the  limits  of  the  United  States.  The 
situation  of  our  brethren  in  that  remote  part  of  the  country 
seems  to  present  to  view  a  subject  distinct  in  itself;  and 
the  most  judicious  measures  to  secure  their  prosperity  and 
welfare  will  claim  the  exercise  of  your  united  counsel  and 
wisdom. 

"  The  Book  Concern,  considered  in  a  moral  and  pecL 
niary  point  of  view,  is  an  important  establishment  in  ou. 
Church,  and  will  be,  if  proper  exertions  should  be  mad* 
111  the  circulation  of  books,  not  only  a  source  of  relief  and 
support  to  our  itinerant  ministry,  but  a  most  effectual  me- 
dium of  conveying  light  and  knowledge  to  the  thousands 
among  whom  we  labor,  and  perhaps  to  multitudes  who  do 
not  attend  our  preaching.  If  any  improvement  can  be 
made  in  its  present  plan  of  operation,  so  as  to  render  it 
more  extensively  useful  than  it  now  is,  it  is  desirable  that 
it  should  be  done. 

« In  the  course  of  your  deliberations,  the  local  district 
conference,  the  financing  systen^  and  the  proper  instruc- 
tion and  education  of  children,  may  require  some  attention, 
as  well  as  several  other  subjects  not  necessary  now  to 
mention. 

"The  importance  of  supporting  the  plan  of  an  itinerant 
J,,  „ii^  oi  H.aiaiaining  uumu  amvng  ourselves,  can- 


264 


A   HISTORY   OF  THB 


[1824. 


not  have  escaped  your  recollection.  They  are  subjects 
involving  the  vital  interests  of  the  Church,  and  our  prayer 
is,  that  the  wisdom  of  the  Most  High  may  guide  us  in 
such  'X  ocurae  as  shall  be  favorable  both  to  the  one  and  to 
the  other,*' 

Among  other  things  which  engaged  the  attention  of 
this  conference,  was  the  subject  of  a  lay  delegation. 
This  came  up  for  consideration  by  the  presentation  of  a 
number  of  raemc  :iais  aiid  petitions  from  local  preachers 
and  lay  members,  praying  for  the  General  Conference 
to  grant  them  "  the  right,"  as  they  termed  it,  of  a  voice 
in  the  legislative  department  of  the  Church.  The 
committee  to  whom  these  documents  were  referred  pre- 
sented the  following  report,  which,  after  an  able  and 
full  discussion,  was  adopted  by  the  conference : — 

"  Re80i.ved,  by  the  delegates  of  the  several  annual  con- 
ferences in  General  Conference  assembled, 

"  1.  That  it  is  inexpedient  to  recommend  a  lay  dele- 
gation. 

"  2.  Resolved,  &c.,  That  the  following  circular  be  sent 
in  reply  to  the  petitioners,  memorialists,  &c. 

"  Beloved  Brethren  :— -Several  ;..3morials  have  been 
brought  up  to  the  General  Conference,  proposing  to  change 
the  present  order  of  our  Church  government.  By  one  or 
more  of  these  it  is  proposed  *  to  admit  into  the  annual  con' 
ferences  a  lay  delegate  from  each  circuit  and  station,  and 
into  the  General  Conference  an  equal  delegation  of  minis- 
ters and  lay  members  :'  or,  '  to  admit  a  representation  of 
local  preachers  and  lay  members  into  the  General  Confer- 
ence, to  be  so  apportioned  with  thfe  itinerant  ministry  as 
to  secure  an  equilibrium  of  influence  in  that  body :'  or, 
*  that  the  General  Conference  call  a  convention,  to  consist 
of  representatives  from  each  annual  conference,  and  an 
equal  number  of  representatives  chosen  by  the  members 
3 


[1824. 

re  subjects 
our  prayer 

^uide  us  in 
one  and  to 

ttention  of 
delegation, 
itation  of  a 
I  preachers 
Conference 
of  a  voice 
rch.  The 
iferred  pre- 
[  able  and 
e: — 

Einnual  con- 

a  lay  dele- 

dar  be  sent 

i  have  been 
ig  to  change 
By  one  or 
annual  con* 
station,  and 
m  of  minis- 
sentation  of 
jral  Confer- 
ministry  as 
;  body :'  or, 
[1,  to  consist 
ice,  and  an 
le  members 


1824.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  265 

of  each  circuit  or  station,  to  form  a  constitution  which 
shall  be  binding  upon  each  member  of  our  Church :'  or, 
'  that  a  representation  of  the  local  preachers  and  the  mem- 
bership be  introduced  into  the  General  Conference,*  either 
by  electing  delegates  separately,  or  that  the  membership 
be  represented  by  the  local  ministry,  they  being  elected 
by  the  united  suffrage  of  the  local  preachers  and  lay- 
members. 

"  To  these  memorials,  as  well  as  to  others  praying  the 
continuance  of  our  government  in  its  present  form,  we  have 
given  an  attentive  hearing  in  full  conference,  and,  after 
much  retiection,  we  reply : — 

"  We  are  glad  to  be  assured  that  there  exists  but  one 
opinion  among  all  our  brethren  respecting  the  importance 
of  our  itinerant  ministry,  and  that  they  who  desire  a 
change,  whether  of  the  form  of  the  General  Conference 
alone,  or  of  the  annual  conferences  also,  are  moved  to  so- 
licit it  rather  by  their  zeal  to  support  the  itinerancy  than 
for  want  of  attachment  to  it.  They  would  relieve  the 
preachers  of  the  delicacy  of  fixing  the  amount  of  their 
own  salaries  ;  and  as  in  this  natter  they  could  act  more 
independently,  so  they  would  also  provide  more  liberally. 

"  We  respectfully  acknowledge  the  candor  of  brethren, 
who,  although  they  intimate  that  it  is  unseemly  for  the 
preachers  to  determine  ♦heir  own  salaries,  yet  do  not  pre- 
tend that  their  allowance  is  excessive,  or  that  they  claim 
a  right  to  demand  it.  It  is  true  that  the  deficiency  of 
quarterage  is  so  general,  in  such  large  proportions,  that 
the  conference  collections  and  the  dividends  from  the  Book 
Concern  md  chartered  fund  have  never  been  sufficient  to 
supply  it ;  and,  indeed,  the  conference  stewards  usually 
settle  with  the  preachers  at  a  discount  of  from  thirty  to 
sixty  per  cent. 

"  But  we  presume  that  these  facts  have  been  generally 
known ;  so  that  whatever  injury  may  be  sustained  from 

3 


266  A  riisTORt  OF  ^Ae  n^4. 

the  scantiness  of  our  support  is  attributablfe,  not  to  the  im- 
providence of  the  rule  which  limits  the  amount^  but  to 
some  other  cause  ;  and  whatever  that  cause  may  be,  we 
at  least  have  no  information  that  the  people  refuse  to  con- 
tribute because  they  are  not  represented.  Indeed,  it  would 
grieve  us  to  know  this :  for  even  though  they  should  re- 
fuse to  acknowledge  us  as  their  representatives  in  the 
General  Conference,  they  cannot  do  less  for  the  love  of 
Christ  than  they  would  oblige  themselves  to  do  out  of  love 
for  authority, 

"  We  rejoice  to  know  that  the  proposed  change  is  not 
contemplated  as  a  remedy  for  evils  which  now  exist  in 
some  infraction  of  the  rights  and  privileges  of  the  people, 
as  defined  to  them  by  the  form  of  Discipline ;  but  that  it  is 
offered,  either  in  anticipation  of  the  possible  existence  of 
such  evils,  or  else  on  a  supposition  of  abstract  rights, 
which,  in  the  opinion  of  some,  should  form  the  basis  of 
cur  government. 

"  The  rights  and  privileges  of  our  brethren,  as  members 
of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  we  hold  most  sacred. 
We  are  unconscious  of  having  infringed  them  in  any  in- 
stance, nor  would  we  do  so.  The  limitations  and  restric- 
tions which  describe  the  extent  of  our  authority  in  General 
Conference,  and  beyond  which  we  have  never  acted,  vin- 
dicate our  sincerity  in  this  assertion.  By  those  '  restric- 
tions' it  is  put  out  of  the  power  of  the  General  Conference 
'  to  revoke,  alter,  or  change  our  articles  of  religion ;'  or  to 
revoke  or  change  the  general  rules,  or  '  to  do  away  the 
privileges  of  our  members  of  trial  before  the  society  or  by 
a  committee,  and  of  an  appeal.'  The  general  rules  and 
the  articles  of  religion  form,  to  every  member  of  our 
Church  distinctively ,  a  constitution,  by  which,  as  Method- 
ists and  as  Christians,  ye  do  well  to  be  governed ;  and  we, 
assembled  together  to  make  rules  and  regulations  for  the 
Church,  most  cheerfully  acknowledge  that  the  restrictions 
3 


LOt  to  the  itn- 
nount»  but  to 
may  be,  we 
efuse  to  con* 
ieed,  it  would 
sy  should  re- 
itives  in  the 
r  the  love  of 
lo  out  of  love 

rhange  is  not 
now  exist  in 
f  the  people, 
but  that  it  is 
existence  of 
stract  rights, 
the  basis  of 

,  as  members 
most  sacred, 
sm  in  any  in- 
3  and  restric- 
ty  in  General 
er  acted,  vin- 
lose  'restric- 
il  Conference 
iligion ;'  or  to 
>  do  away  the 
society  or  by 
sral  rules  and 
imber  of  our 
I,  as  Method- 
ned;  and  we, 
itions  for  the 
le  restrictions 


1824.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH. 


267 


above  mentioned  are  as  solemnly  binding  upon  us  as  the 
general  rules  are  upon  both  us  and  you  individually. 

"  These  restrictions  are  to  you  the  guarantee  of  your 
'rights  and  privileges;'  and  while  we  shall  be  governed 
by  these,  as  such,  we  will  also  regard  them  as  the  pledge 
of  your  confidence  in  us. 

"  But  if  by  '  rights  and  privileges*  it  is  intended  to  sig- 
nify something  foreign  from  the  institutions  of  the  Church, 
as  we  received  them  from  our  fathers,  pardon  us  if  we 
know  no  such  rights— if  we  do  not  comprehend  such  pri- 
vileges. With  our  brethren  everywhere  we  rejoice,  that 
the  institutions  of  our  happy  country  are  admirably  calcu- 
lated to  secure  the  best  ends  of  civil  government.  With 
their  rights,  as  citizens  of  these  United  States,  the  Church 
disclaims  all  interference ;  but,  that  it  should  be  inferred 
from  these  what  are  your  rights  as  Methodists,  seems  to 
us  no  less  surprising  than  if  your  Methodism  should  be 
made  the  criterion  of  your  rights  as  citizens. 

"  We  believe  the  proposed  change  to  be  inexpedient : 

"1.  Because  it  would  create  a  distinction  of  interests 
oetween  the  itinerancy  and  the  membership  of  the 
Ohurch. 

"  2.  Because  it  presupposes  that  either  the  authority  of 
the  General  Conference  *  to  make  rules  and  regulations' 
for  the  Church,  or  the  manner  in  which  this  authority  has 
been  exercised,  is  displeasing  to  the  Church,  the  reverse 
of  which  we  believe  to  be  true. 

"  3.  Because  it  would  involve  a  tedious  procedure,  in- 
convenient in  itself,  and  calculated  to  agitate  the  Church 
to  her  injury. 

"  4.  Because  it  would  give  to  those  districts  which  are 
conveniently  situated,  and  could  therefore  secure  the  at- 
tendance of  their  delegates,  an  undue  influence  in  the 
government  of  the  Church. 

"  With  respect  to  lesser  matters  mentioned  in  the  me- 


':i'4 


:|. 


:,^ 


1 1  ;x;       '    -»As^,  ■■ 


"■tBliilir 


268  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1824. 

morials,  we  respectfully  refer  you  to  the  revised  copy  of 
the  Disc-pline,  forthwith  to  be  published." 

The  subject  of  education  came  before  this  conference 
with  increased  weight,  and  its  importance  was  duly 
appreciated.  The  views  of  the  conference  in  relation 
to  this  subject  may  be  seen  by  the  following  extract 
from  the  report  of  the  committee  to  whom  it  had  been 
referred,  and  which  met  with  the  hearty  concurrence 
of  the  conference  : — 

"  In  considering  this  subject,  your  committee  have  been 
happy  in  believing  that  no  arguments  were  necessary  to 
impress  this  conference  with  a  sense  of  its  importance. 
The  cultivation  of  the  human  mind,  with  a  view  to  pre- 
pare it  for  the  full  exercise  of  its  powers,  and  thereby  to 
render  it  capable  of  answering  the  xioblo  purposes  of  its 
creation,  may  be  reckoned  among  the  first  and  greatest  ob- 
jects of  a  civilized  community.  The  nature  of  this  work 
is  such  that  it  requires  an  early  commencement,  and 
hence,  in  every  enlightened  nation,  the  education  of  chil- 
di'en  has  been  deemed  necessary  to  the  well-being  of 
societies  as  well  as  individuals,  and  Christian  people  have 
held  it  among  their  most  sacred  duties.  In  the  early  esta- 
blishment of  Methodism,  in  the  very  begmning  of  our  reli- 
gious institutions  as  a  Christian  denomination,  it  was 
recommended  to  our  people,  made  the  duty  of  our  minis- 
ters, and  the  fruit  of  it  already  realized  sufficiently  shows 
its  utility. 

"  Your  committee,  nevertheless,  are  fully  impressed  with 
the  unpleasant  fact,  that  this  subject,  so  intimately  con- 
nected with  the  vital  interests  of  our  Church,  and  with  the 
salvation  of  so  many  thousands  of  souls,  has  been,  and  is 
at  this  moment,  much  neglected.  While  we  are  happy  in 
believing  that  in  many  duties  and  labors  we  have  done 
much  more  than  several  other  denominations,  we  think  it 
3 


[1824. 
vised  copy  of 

lis  conference 
ice  was  duly 
ce  in  relation 
>wiag  extract 
[1  it  had  been 
r  concurrence 

ttee  have  been 
t  necessary  to 
ts  importance. 
I  view  to  pre- 
nd  thereby  to 
mrposes  of  its 
nd  greatest  ob- 
e  of  this  work 
sncement,  and 
cation  of  chil- 
well-being  of 
m  people  have 
the  early  esta- 
ing  of  our  reli- 
lation,  it  was 
of  our  minis- 
iciently  shows 

mpressed  with 
ntimately  con- 
1,  and  with  the 
s  been,  and  is 
e  arc  happy  in 
wo  have  done 
a,  we  think  it 


1824.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  269 

must  be  admitted  that  in  the  instruction  of  children  some 
of  them  have  exceeded  us.  And  unless  effectual  mea- 
sures can  be  adopted  for  securing  proper  attention  to  the 
rising  generation  under  our  care,  we  may  anticipate  un- 
happy consequences.  The  children  of  our  hearers,  and 
especially  those  of  our  Church  members  who  have  received 
baptism  at  our  hands,  may  be  considered  as  standing  in  a 
relation  to  us  different  from  that  of  children  in  general, 
and  fully  entitled  to  all  the  attention  from  us  which  their 
age  and  situation  require.  If  properly  taught  and  edu- 
cated, they  will  be  prepared  to  become  valuable  members 
of  our  societies,  and  heirs  of  salvation  ;  but,  if  neglected, 
we  may  expect  them  to  become  vessels  of  wrath,  fitted  to 
destruction. 

"  On  the  subject  of  schools  and  seminaries  of  learning, 
yoiir  committee  have  obtained  all  the  information  their 
limited  time  and  means  would  allow,  and  are  of  opinion 
that  in  this  also  we  are  deficient.  In  1820  a  resolution 
passed  the  General  Conference,  recommending  that  each 
annual  conference  should  establish  a  classical  seminary 
wiihin  its  own  boundaries  and  under  its  own  regulations. 
Three  or  four  seminaries  have  been  established  in  con- 
formity to  this  resolution,  some  of  which  are  in  successful 
operation,  and  it  is,  in  the  opinion  of  your  committee,  de- 
sirable that  such  an  institution  should  flourish  under  the 
patronage  of  each  annual  conference  in  the  Union. 

"Our  Church  contains  multitudes  of  young  men,  not 
called  to  the  ministry,  who  are  qualified  to  teach,  and 
many  of  whom  would  bo  more  useful  in  such  employment 
than  ihey  can  be  in  any  other.  If  these,  as  well  as  some 
of  our  local  preachers,  wore  made  sensible  of  the  good 
they  might  do  our  Church,  even  as  teachers  of  schools,  it 
is  believed  there  would  be  no  difliculty  in  supplying  nu- 
merous schools  of  our  country  with  teachers  who  would  be 
in  favor  of  the  doctrine  and  discipline  of  our  Church. 

3 


270 


A   HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1824. 

"  In  closing  these  remarks,  your  committee  beg  leave 
to  offer,  for  the  consideration  of  this  conference,  the  fol- 
lowing resolutions,  namely : — 

"  1.  That,  as  far  as  practicable,  it  shall  be  the  duty  of 
every  preacher  of  a  circuit  or  station  to  obtain  the  names 
of  the  children  belonging  to  his  congregations,  to  form 
them  into  classes,  for  the  purpose  of  giving  them  religious , 
instruction,  to  instruct  them  regularly  himself,  as  much  as 
his  other  duties  will  allow,  to  appoint  a  suitable  leader  for 
each  class,  who  shall  instruct  them  in  his  absence,  and  to 
leave  his  successor  a  correct  account  of  each  class  thus 
formed,  with  the  name  of  its  leader. 

"  2.  That  we  approve  of  the  resolution,  passed  in  thft 
General  Conference  of  1820,  on  the  subject  of  seminaries 
of  learning,  and  hereby  recommend  that  each  annual  con- 
ference not  having  a  seminary  of  learning  use  its  utmoi-t 
exertions  to  effect  such  an  establishment. 

"  3.  That  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  every  travelling  preacher 
in  our  Church  to  keep  in  mind  the  importance  of  having 
suitable  teachers  employed  in  the  instruction  of  the  youth 
of  our  country,  and  to  use  his  influence  to  introduce  teach- 
ers into  schools  whose  learning,  piety,  and  religious  tenets 
are  such  as  we  could  recommend." 

As  it  was  the  constitutional  duty  of  the  managers  of 
the  Missionary  Society  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church  to  report  the  doings  of  the  society  for  the  four 
preceding  years,  and  the  state  of  the  funds,  a  report  was 
presented  by  the  treasurer,  in  which  it  appeared  that 
the  whole  amount  collected  for  missionary  purposes, 
from  the  commencement  of  the  society  to  that  time, 
was  $14,716  24t,  and  expended  during  the  same  pe- 
riod #11,011  40?,  leaving  a  balance  of  $3,704  83?. 
This  shows  the  feeble  manner  in  whici.  the  society 
commenced  its  operations,  and  how  long  it  was,  not- 
3 


[1824. 

56  beg  leave 
»nce,  the  fol- 

I  the  duty  of 
in  the  names 
ons,  to  form 
lem  religious  > 
\  as  much  as 
lie  leader  for 
jence,  and  to 
h  class  thu9 

assed  in  thft 

f  seminaries 

annual  con- 

>e  its  utmo&t 

ing  preacher 
e  of  having 
af  the  youth 
)duce  teach- 
igious  tenets 

lanagers  of 
.  Episcopal 
for  the  four 
-  report  was 
pcared  that 
f  ()urposes, 
that  time, 
B  same  pe- 
3,704  83J. 
the  society 
t  was,  not- 


1824.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL  CHURCH.  271 

withstanding  the  favorable  manner  in  which  it  had 
been  received  by  the  annual  conferences,  before  the 
people  generally  came  fully  into  this  great  and  good 
work.  ° 

The  managers  conclude  their  report  to  the  confer- 
ence in  the  following  words : 

"  In  thus  submitting  to  the  General  Conference  a  con- 
cise  view  of  the  transactions  of  the  society,  the  managers 
cannot  but  express  their  gratitude  to  God  for  permitting 
them  to  bo  the  humble  instruments  of  aiding,  in  the  ma- 
nagement of  the  concerns  of  this  society,  in  anv  measure. 
to  extend  the  empire  of  trutli  and  righteousness  in  our 
wor  d ;  at  the  same  time  pledging  themselves  that,  while  the 
conference  shall  continue  its  operations  for  the  noble  pur- 
pose of  evangelizing  mankind,  and  of  bringing  them  under 
tne  yoke  of  Jesus  Christ,  they  will  use  their  best  endea- 
vors to  promote  the  same  blessed  object,  by  a  faithful  dis- 
charge of  their  duties  as  managers  of  the  Missionary  So- 
ciety  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church. 
"New-York,  April 23,  1824." 

This  report,  together  with  the  enUre  subject  relating 
to  missions,  was  referred  to  a  committee,  whose  report, 
which  was  concurred  m  by  the  conference,  was  as  fol- 
lows : — 

"  The  committee  view  with  pleasure  the  success  attend- 
ing our  missionary  exertions  for  the  last  four  years  ;  and 
think  that  we  are  loudly  called  upon  to  make  our  acknow- 
ledgments to  the  God  of  missions,  for  the  special  manner 
m  which  i^,  has  pleased  him  to  own  our  efforts. 

"  We  began  feeble,  but  God  has  strengthened  us.  We 
began  fearful,  but  God  has  encouraged  and  assured  us. 
Jio  hmited  was  our  knowledge,  and  so  numerous  the 
claimc  upon  our  benevolence,  that  we  scarcely  knew  to 

8 


m 


m 


272  A   HISTORY    OF    THE  [1824. 

what  particular  point  to  direct  our  first  attention.  God, 
however,  wo  humbly  trust,  has  given  a  diroction  to  our 
labors  which  has  been  highly  important  and  boneficial, 
not  only  un  account  of  immediate  effects,  but  because  a 
great  and  effectual  door  has  been  opened  for  the  further 
prosecution  of  our  missionary  plans. 

"  By  avoiding  that  prodigality  of  expenditure  so  evi- 
d(M»tly  soon  in  some,  and  that  partiality  of  appropriation  so 
manifest  in  others,  and  by  observing  economy  and  pru- 
dence in  the  management  of  our  missionary  affairs,  we 
cannot  fail,  under  the  continued  blessing  of  God,  to  succeed 
in  the  grout  work  of  evangelizing  even  the  barbarous  na- 
tions nnmnd  us. 

"  While  an  eye  to  economy  is  had  in  the  appropriation 
of  thei  funds  of  the  institution,  your  committee  are  of  opi- 
nion that  the  missions  among  our  Indians  ought  to  bo 
})rosocute»l  with  increased  vigor,  laying  a  proper  foundu- 
tion  for  facilitating  their  future  conversion  in  the  education 
of  their  children ;  and  that,  for  every  missionary  station, 
men  shoulil  be  selected  as  missionaries  of  hardy  constitu- 
tions, of  enterprising  spirit,  able  and  willing  to  labor,  to 
racrifice  all  for  God  and  his  cause. 

"  Rut,  in  the  midst  of  all  these  labors  abroad,  we  should 
not  forget  thiit  much  remains  to  be  done  within  the  bounds 
of  our  respective  conferences.  While  Zion  is  lengthening 
her  cords  and  enlarging  her  borders,  she  ought  also  to 
strengthen  her  stakes,  otherv/ise  her  enlargements  will  be 
her  weakness.  Let  all  the  intervening  sections  of  our 
comitry  not  inclosed  in  our  fields  of  labor  be  examined, 
and,  if  Providence  open  the  way,  bo  occupied.  Let  mis- 
sionaries be  appointed,  whose  duty  it  shall  b',not  to  wan- 
der ovef  a  whole  conference,  nor  to  preach  generally,  if  at 
nil,  in  old  societies  mad(^  ready  to  their  hands,  except  in 
places  where  societies  are  very  small ;  but  to  fix  upon 
certain  places  still  in  the  enemy's  handii,  and  where  there 


[1824. 

ition.  God, 
)ction  to  our 
d  boneficial, 
t  because  a 
■  the  further 

ture  so  evi- 
ropriation  8o 
iiy  and  pru- 
f  affairs,  we 
[1,  to  succeed 
arbarous  sm- 

ippropriation 
e  are  of  opi- 
ought  to  bo 
oper  foundii- 
ho  education 
nary  station, 
rdy  constitu- 
;  to  labor,  to 

d,  we  should 
in  the  bounds 
I  lengthening 
»ught  also  to 
nents  will  be 
!tions  of  our 
e  examined, 
d.  Let  niis- 
',  not  to  wan- 
3neral!y,  if  at 
Is,  except  in 
to  fix  upon 
whore  there 


1824.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  273 

i8  rational  ground  of  success,  and  then,  by  siege  or  assault 
as  the  case  may  require,  carry,  in  the  name  of  the  Lord 
the  strong  holds  of  prejudice  and  sin.  When  this  is  done! 
lot  It  be  taken  into  a  regular  circuit,  and  the  missionary  be 
at  liberty  to  pursue  a  similar  course  in  other  places.  In 
this  way.  It  wo  are  steady  a;id  faithful  to  our  purpose  we 
shall  be  enabled,  by  the  divine  blessing,  ultimately  to  esta- 
bhsh  ourselves  in  all  the  sections  of  our  country,  until  the 
power  of  our  doctrines  and  the  purity  of  our  discipline 
shall  renovate  every  part. 

"Your  committee  taice  the  liberty  further  to  state,  that, 
m  their  opinion,  an  open  and  candid  statement  of  the  con- 
dition of  the  missions  will  be  profitable,  not  only  as  it  will 
convince  the  public  that  we  mean  to  act  in  good  faith  b"t 
because  the  information  so  communicated,  from  time  to 
time,  will  gladden  the  hearts  of  thousands  who  have  con- 
tributed,  or  may  by  this  means  be  induced  to  contribute,  to 
this  benevolent  object." 

The  American  Colonization  Society  presented  certain 
documents  to  the  conference,  which  were  referred  to  a 
committee  to  consider  and  report  thereon,  and  the  fol- 
lowing was  concurred  in  by  the  co.iference:  - 

"That  the  General  Conference  are  not  in  possession  of 
sufficient  information  relative  to  said  society  to  render  it 
proper  for  them,  in  their  official  capacity,  to  adopt  any 
measures  on  .•.  •  subject,  farther  than  to  recommend  it" 
('hat  18,  the  colony  at  Liberia)  "  to  the  notice  of  the  proper 
authorities  of  the  Missionary  Society  of  the  Methodist 
l^pi^conal  Church,  as  a  suitable  fi.  Id  for  sowing  the  good 
«ee(i  of  th.  kingdom  of  God.  Under  this  view  of  the  sub- 
ject,  the  co^  Hi,  -» 0  recommend  the  adoption  of  the  follow- 
ing rnsoluti  *f»,  v'ls.  :~ 

"That  it  U  expedient,  whenever  the  funds  of  the  Mis- 
fiionary  Soctoty  will  justify  the  measure,  for  the  episcopacy 


!  , 


IS 


3 


274  A   HISTORY   OF   THE  [1834. 

to  select  and  send  a  missionary  or  missionaries  to  the 
colony  in  Africa  now  establishing  under  the  auspices  of 
the  American  Colonization  Society." 

It  would  appear  from  the  above  report  that  the  Ame- 
rican Colonization  Society  had  not  yet  sufficiently 
developed  its  character  and  objects  to  enable  the  confer- 
ence to  act  intelligibly  and  safely  in  furtherance  of  its 
views,  or  fully  to  endorse  its  measures.  Its  subsequent 
history,  however,  has  removed  the  cause  of  those  doubts 
which  excited  this  hesitancy,  and  the  conference  has 
since,  by  sundry  resolutions,  entered  heartily  into  the 
measure  of  endeavoring  to  plant  a  colony  of  American 
freemen  of  color,  with  their  own  consent,  on  the  west- 
ern coast  of  Africa.  These  things  belong  more  appro- 
priately  to  another  period  of  our  history,  and  will 
therefore  be  noticed  in  their  proper  place. 

Various  enactments  .iad  been  passed,  from  one  Ge- 
neral Conference  to  another,  with  a  view  to  regulate 
the  practice  of  slavery  in  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  an  evil  this  which  it  seemed  impossible  to  con- 
trol, much  less  to  eradicate  from  the  ranks  of  our 
Israel.  From  the  organization  of  the  Church,  in  1784, 
slavery  had  been  pronounced  an  evil,  and,  as  before 
remarked,  a  variety  of  expedients  had  been  resorted  to 
for  the  purpose  of  lessening  its  deleterious  tendencies 
where  it  seemed  unavoidably  to  exist,  to  meliorate  the 
condition  of  the  slave  where  his  civil  bondage  could  not 
be  removed,  and  entirely  to  prevent  our  preachers  and 
people  from  holding  slaves  at  all  in  those  states  and 
territories  which  permitted  emancipation.  Finding, 
however,  that  the  evil  was  beyond  the  control  of  eccle- 
Biastical  law,  as  to  its  eradication  from  the  Church,  and 
wishing  to  render  the  condition  of  the  slave  aa  comfort- 
3 


[1824. 

aries  to  the 
I  auspices  of 

at  the  Ame- 
sufficiently 
3  the  confer- 
jrance  of  its 
5  subsequent 
those  doubts 
iiference  has 
tily  into  the 
)f  American 
m  the  west- 
more  appro- 
y,   and  will 

rom  one  Ge- 

'  to  regulate 
3t  Episcopal 
ssible  to  con- 
anks  of  our 
rch,  in  1784, 
id,  as  before 
sn  resorted  to 
IS  tendencies 
meliorate  the 
ige  could  not 
reachers  and 
3e  states  and 
I.  Finding, 
itrol  of  eccle- 
Church,  and 
e  as  comfort- 


1824.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  273 

able  as  possible,  by  holding  his  master  strictly  responsi- 
ble to  the  proper  tribunals  of  the  Church  for  the  manner 
in  which  he  treated  his  slave,  as  well  as  to  extend  to 
the  colored  members  of  our  Church  all  the  privileges 
compatible  with  iheir  civil  and  ecclesiastical  relations, 
this  General  Conference  so  modified  the  section  in  the 
Discipline  on  slavery  as  to  read  as  follows  :— 

"  Quest.  What  shall  be  done  for  the  extirpation  of  the 
evil  of  slavery  ? 

''Answer.  1.  We  declare  that  we  are  as  much  as  ever 
convinced  of  the  great  evil  of  slavery :  therefore  no  slave- 
holder shall  be  eligible  to  any  official  station  in  our  Church 
hereafter,  where  the  laws  of  the  state  in  which  he  lives 
wiU  admit  of  emancipation,  and  permit  the  liberated  slave 
to  enjoy  freedom. 

"  2.  When  any  traveling  preacher  becomes  an  owner 
of  a  slave  or  slaves,  by  any  means,  he  shall  forfeit  his 
ministerial  character  in  our  Church  unless  he  execute,  if 
It  be  practicable,  a  legal  emancipation  of  such  slaves,  con- 
formably to  the  laws  of  the  state  in  which  he  lives. 

"  3.  All  our  preachers  shall  prudently  enforce  upon  our 
members  the  necessity  of  teaching  their  slaves  to  read  the 
word  of  God,  and  to  allow  them  time  to  attend  upon  the 
pubUc  worship  of  God  on  our  regular  days  of  divine 
service. 

"4.  Our  colored  preachers  and  official  members  shall 
have  all  the  privileges  which  are  usual  to  others  in  the 
district  and  quarteriy  conferences,  where  the  usages  of  the 
country  do  not  forbid  it.  And  the  presiding  elder  may 
hold  for  them  a  separate  district  conference,  where  the 
number  of  colored  local  preachers  will  justify  it. 

"5.  The  annual  conferences  may  employ  colored 
preachers  to  travel  and  preach  where  their  services  are 
judged  necessary,  provided  that  no  one  shall  be  so  em- 


'it 


276 


A   HISTORY  OF   THE 


.*! 


If- 

m 


[1824. 

ployed  without  having  been  recommended  according  to 
the  form  of  Discipline." 

So  it  remains,  unaltered,  to  the  present  time. 

The  following  are  the  resolutions  of  the  committee 
on  the  episcopacy,  which  were  adopted  by  the  confer- 
ence : — 

"  1.  That  we  approve  generally  of  the  conduct  of  the 
superintendents  in  the  administration  of  the  government 
for  the  last  four  years  ;  and  that  their  zeal  and  exertions 
to  promote  the  cause  of  God  and  the  interests  of  the 
Church,  under  the  circumstances  in  which  they  have  been 
placed,  merit  the  grateful  acknowledgments  of  the  General 
Conference  and  of  the  whole  Church. 

"  2.  That  Bishop  M'Kendree  be,  and  hereby  is,  respect- 
fully reqjiested  to  continue  to  afford  what  aid  he  can  to 
the  episcopacy,  consistently  with  his  age  and  infirmities, 
when  and  where  it  may  best  suit  his  own  convenienct ; 
and  that  the  provisions  of  the  last  General  Conference  for 
meeting  his  contingent  expenses  be  continued. 

"  3.  That  the  episcopacy  be  strengthened  by  the  elec- 
tion and  ordination  of  two  additional  bishops  at  the  present 
session  of  the  General  Conference. 

"  4.  That  it  is  highly  expedient  for  the  general  super- 
intendents, at  every  session  of  the  General  Conference, 
and  as  far  as  to  them  may  appear  practicable  in  the  inter- 
vals of  the  sessions,  annually  to  meet  in  counc  il,  to  form 
their  plan  of  traveling  through  their  charge,  whether  in  a 
circuit  after  each  other,  or  dividing  the  connection  into 
several  episcopal  departmentc,  as  to  them  may  appear 
proper,  and  most  conducive  to  the  general  good,  and  the 
better  to  enable  them  fully  to  perform  the  great  work  of 
their  administration  in  the  general  superintendency,  and 
to  exchange  and  unite  their  views  upon  all  affairs  con- 
nected with  the  general  interests  of  the  Church. 


^uL . 


[1824. 
;cording  to 


le. 

committee 
he  confer- 

duct  of  the 
government 
d  exertions 
ests  of  the 
r  have  been 
he  General 

is,  respect- 
l  he  can  to 

infirmities, 
mveniencfc ; 
aference  for 

by  the  elec- 
the  present 

leral  super- 
Conference, 
in  the  inter- 
ne il,  to  form 
vhether  in  a 
nection  into 
may  appear 
ood,  and  the 
sat  work  of 
idency,  and 
affairs  con- 
!h. 


1824.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  277 

"  5.  That  the  book  agents  and  book  committee  in  New- 
York  shall  be  a  committee  to  estimate  the  amount  neces- 
sary to  meet  the  family  expenses  of  the  bishops,  which 
shall  be  annually  paid  by  the  book  agents  out  of  the  funds 
of  the  Book  Concern,  and  that  the  above  resolution  be 
incorporated  in  the  Discipline." 

In  accordance  with  the  third  resolution  in  the  above 
report,  the  conference  proceeded,  on  the  twenty-sixth 
day  of  its  session,  to  ballot  .or  two  additional  bishops. 
There  were  one  hundred  and  twenty-eight  voters  pre- 
sent, and  on  counting  the  votes  for  the  first  time  it 
appeared  that  no  one  had  a  majority.  On  the  second 
balloting  the  Rev.  Joshua  Soule  had  sixty-five,  and  on 
the  third  the  Rev.  Elijah  Hedding  sixty-six,  out  of  one 
hundred  and  twenty-eight  votes.  They  were  accord- 
ingly declared  duly  elected,  and  having  signified  their 
acceptance  of  the  office,  they  were,  after  an  ordination 
sermon  by  Bishop  M'Kendree,  at  12  o'clock  on  the 
27th,  consecrated  by  prayer  and  imposition  of  hands, 
Bishop  M'Kendree  acting  as  the  officiating  minister. 

The  conference  passed  a  resolution  authorizing  the 
bishops  to  appoint  a  delegate  to  visit  the  Wesleyan  Me- 
thodist conference  at  its  session  in  July  of  1826.  This, 
however,  was  not  carried  into  execution,  in  consequence 
of  which  we  had  no  representative  from  England  at 
our  conference  in  1828. 

The  aflTairs  of  Canada  once  more  engaged  the  atten- 
tion of  the  conference,  but  without  coming  to  any 
conclusion  satisfactory  to  the  Canada  brethren.  A 
petition  was  presented  from  a  portion  of  the  preachers 
in  the  upper  province,  to  be  set  off*  as  an  independent 
conference,  with  tlie  privilege  of  electing  a  bishop  to 
reside  among  them  and  superintend  their  affairs.    The 


i   -^ 


l# 


f!^ 


278  A    HISTORY   OF   THE  [1824. 

following  resolutions  contain  the  resijJt  of  the  delibera- 
tions upon  this  subject : — 

"  1.  That  there  shall  be  a  Canada  conference  rnder  our 
superintendency,  bounded  by  the  boundary  lines  of  Upper 
Canada. 

"  2.  That  a  circular  shall  be  addressed  to  our  preachers 
and  members  included  within  the  bownds  of  the  Canada 
conference,  expressive  of  our  zeal  for  their  prosperity,  and 
urging  the  importance  of  their  maintaining  union  among 
themselves. 

"  3.  That  a  respectful  representation  be  made  to  the 
British  conference  of  those  points  in  the  late  agreement 
between  the  two  connections  which  have  not,  on  the  |)art 
of  their  missionaries,  been  fulfilled." 

As  before  said,  these  measures  were  by  no  means 
satisfactory  to  those  in  Upper  Canada  who  were  desirous 
of  having  a  separate  and  independent  church  organiza- 
tion in  that  province.  Accordingly,  on  the  return  of 
the  delegates  who  had  attended  the  General  Conference, 
a  spirit  of  dissatisfaction  was  widely  diffused,*  the  local 
preachers  were  convened,  a  conference  organized,  and 
a  declaration  of  their  grievances,  rights,  and  future 
mode  of  operations  published  and  circulated.  All  this 
took  place  before  the  Canada  annual  conference  assem- 
bled. On  the  assembhng  of  the  conference,  however, 
in  Hallowell,  Bishops  George  and  Hedding  being  pre- 
sent, mutual  explanations  made,  and  pledges  given  by 
the  bishops  to  sanction  measures  for  a  separate  organi- 

*  It  is  probably  due  to  the  interests  of  truth,  as  well  as  to 
the  characters  of  the  living  and  the  dead,  to  say,  that  the 
chief  agent  of  this  movement  was  the  Rev.  Henry  Ryan, 
who  afterward  withdrew  from  the  Church,  and  attempted 
to  establish  a  separate  party. 
3 


[1824. 
le  delibera- 

!e  imder  our 
es  of  Upper 

iir  preachers 

the  Canada 

(sperity,  and 

inion  among 

nade  to  the 
B  agree ;nent 
,  on  the  J,  art 

no  means 
ere  desirous 
;h  organiza- 
e  return  of 
Conference, 
3,*  the  local 
anized,  and 
and  future 
d.  All  this 
ence  assem- 
;e,  however, 
'  being  pre- 
es  given  by 
.rate  organi- 

as  well  as  to 
say,  that  the 
Henry  Ryan, 
id  attempted 


1824.] 


METHODIST  EPISCOPAL   CHURCH. 


m 


zation  in  Canada  hereafter,  peace  was  measurably 
restored,  and  all  things  went  on  as  heretofore. 

The  constitutional  term  of  the  Rev.  Thomas  Mason, 
as  assistant  book  agent,  having  expired,  the  Rev.  John 
Emory,  D.  D.,  was  elected  to  fill  the  vacancy,  and  Na- 
than Bangs  was  re-elected  as  the  principal. 

It  w  xs  manifest  to  all  that  the  increased  duties  of  the 
preachers,  in  consequence  of  the  introduction  of  sabbath 
sclioolb,  the  organization  of  the  Missionary  and  Tract 
Societies,  and  the  increase  of  members  in  the  larger 
tov/ns  and  villages,  rendered  it  expedient,  that  every 
part  of  the  work  might  be  duly  and  seasonably  per- 
formed, that  the  c"  uits  should  be  shortened,  and  that 
each  thriving  village  should  be  privileged  with  preach- 
ing every  sabbath,  otherwise  it  was  impossible  to 
establish  a  permanent  congregation,  more  especially  in 
those  places  where  other  denominations  had  estabhshed 
congiegations  and  a  resident  ministry.  It  had  been 
long  evident  to  many  of  our  ministers  and  people,  that, 
for  the  want  of  having  a  preacher  stationed  in  all  im- 
portant places,  we  had  lost  much  of  the  fruits  of  our 
labor,  and  must,  unless  an  adequate  remedy  were  pro- 
vided, continue  feeble,  if  not  retrograde  from  the  stand- 
ing we  had  already  attained.  This  subject,  it  seems, 
presented  itself  before  the  committee  on  the  itinerancy, 
together  with  others  which  relate  to  the  duties  of  the 
pastoral  office ;  and  the  following  resolutions,  concurred 
in  by  the  conference,  will  rhow  the  views  which  were 
entertained  in  reference  to  these  matters : — 

"  1.  That  the  superintending  preachers  be  instructed  so 
to  lay  out  their  work  that  there  may  be  sufficient  time 
allowed  each  pr^^qjier  for  the  faithful  and  extensive  dis- 

3 


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280 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1824. 

charge  of  all  his  pastoral  duties,   in  promoting  family 
religion  and  instructing  the  children. 

"  2.  That  all  our  preachers  observe  that  order  of  public 
worship  pointed  out  in  the  twenty-third  section  of  our  form 
of  Discipline  :  and  that  in  the  administration  of  the  ordi- 
nances, and  in  the  service  for  the  burial  of  the  dead,  they 
invariably  use  the  form  in  the  Discipline  ;  and  in  dismiss- 
ing the  congregation,  the  apostolic  benediction ;  that  they 
also  attend  uniformly  to  the  order  prescribed  in  chapter  i, 
section  24,  in  regard  to  singing  the  praises  of  God  in  our 
congregations. 

"  3.  That  the  Lord's  prayer  be  used  upon  all  occasions 
of  public  worship,  at  the  close  of  the  first  prayer,  and  that 
it  be  strongly  recommended  to  all  our  people  to  introduce 
it  into  their  private  and  family  devotions. 
^  "4.  That  the  preachers  be  particularly  examined  on 
these  several  subjects  at  each  annual  conference." 

There  were  no  less  than  ^Ve  new  conferences  created 
this  J  ear,  making  seventeen  in  all. 

Before  the  conference  adjourned,  which  it  did  on 
Friday,  May  29th,  to  meet  in  the  city  of  Pittsburgh, 
May  1,  1828,  the  following  address  to  the  Wesleyan 
Methodist  conference  was  adopted : — 

"  Dear  Fathers  and  Brethren  :— In  reciprocating 
the  kind  and  affectionate  sentiments  contained  in  your 
communication  to  us,  sent  by  the  hands  of  those  whom 
you  had  chosen  to  be  the  messengers  of  the  churches,  we 
feel  an  indescribable  pleasure.  Many  are  the  associations 
that  press  upon  us,  and  the  emotions  that  affect  us,  in  this 
pleasant  interchange  of  affectionate  regards.  We  look  to 
England  as  the  birthplace  of  that  man,  who,  under  the 
guidance  of  Heaven,  was  the  founder  of  a  great  and  flou- 
rishing church.  It  was  there  that  the  infant  societies 
were  nourished,  and  it  was  thence  that  the  word  of  God 


1824.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  281 

was  sent  forth,  even  unto  us.     After  we  had  flourished  for 
some  time  under  your  fostering  care,  a  mysterious  chain 
of  providences  led  to  a  separation  of  our  societies  in  this 
country  from  the  mother  Church.     But  the  scion  that  was 
planted  here  has  been  watered  and  olessed  of  God  •  and 
though  probably  still  inferior  in  solidity  and  strength    vet 
m  the  number  and  extent  of  its  branches,  and  the  a'bun- 
dance  of  its  fruits,  it  vies  with  the  parent  stock.     In  this 
we  rejoice,  and  are  grateful  to  the  great  Head  of  the 
church,  to  whom  alone  the  praise  belongs.     But  it  greatly 
increases  our  joy  to  know  that  our  British  brethren  rejoice 
v/ith  us  and  that  the  parent  Church,  with  which  we  hope 
ever  to  be  identified  by  the  same  holy  doctrines  and  the 
same  salutary  discipline,  is  still  flourishing,  increasing, 
and  abounding  m  every  good  work. 

"For  this  our  increase  of  consolation  we  have  been 
greatly  indebted  to  our  justly  esteemed  brother  and  father 
m  he  Church,  the  Rev.  Richard  Reece,  and  to  his  asso- 
ciated  companion,  the  Rev.  John  Hannah,  whom  you 
have  sent  to  declare  your  state  unto  us,  and  the  interest 
you  feel  in  our  prosperity.     We  received  them  as  your 
messengers,  and  as  brethren  beloved.      Their  presence 
with  us  has  drawn  the  cords  of  brotherly  love  still  closer. 
has  seemed  to  introduce  you  more  immediately  before  us  ' 
and  m  all  our  intercourse  with  them,  both  social  and  pub- 
lic, we  have  been  made  to  feel,  more  sensibly  than  ever, 
that  m  doctrine  and  discipline,  in  experience  and  practice 
and  m  the  great  object  of  evangelizing  the  worie,  the 
British  and  American  Methodists  arc  one.     And  we  de- 
voutly  pray  that  they  may  ever  so  remain. 

;  VVe  are,  with  you,  dear  brethren,  endeavoring  to  main- 
tem  the  purity  of  our  doctrines,  and  are  not  conscious  that 
we  have  suff-ered  them  in  any  instance  to  be  changed  or 
adulterated  m  our  hands.  As  they  are  the  doctrines  which 
iiave  proved  to  so  many,  both  in  Europe  and  America,  the 

3 


283 


A   HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1824. 


power  of  God  unto  salvation,  we  deem  them  to  be  the  gos- 
pel of  God  our  Saviour ;  and  while  he  owns  them  we  will 
never  give  them  up.  With  you,  too,  we  pri^e  and  practi- 
cally vindicate  the  general  rules  of  our  Church,  and  the 
pristine  institutions  and  usages  of  Methodism.  We  are 
also  following  you,  though  at  an  humble  distance,  in  your 
missionary  exertions.  But  such  is  the  extent,  and  in- 
creasing extent,  of  our  work  here,  that  we  cannot  find 
means  or  men  for  foreign  missiond.  The  increase  of  our 
population  is  perhaps  unparalleled,  and  it  is  widely  scat- 
tered over  an  extensive  continent.  To  keep  pace  with  it, 
under  such  circumstances,  requires  much  labor  and  much 
privation.  In  addition  to  this,  the  Lord,  as  you  have 
heard,  has  opened  for  us  a  great  and  effectual  door  among 
the  aborigines  of  our  country.  These  we  dare  not  neglect. 
They  are  our  neighbors,  and  we  must  minister  unto  them ; 
they  have  been  injured,  and  we  must  make  them  repara- 
tion ;  they  are  savages,  and  must  be  civilized ;  heathen, 
and  must  be  converted.  All  this  shall  be  done  if  God 
permit.  We  have  the  work  much  at  heart,  and  hope  and 
pray  for  success.  In  addition  to  this,  we  have  entailed 
upon  us,  in  several  of  our  states,  a  degraded  and  enslaved 
population,  whose  situation  is  making,  if  possible,  a  still 
stronger  claim  upon  our  Christian  philanthropy.  And, 
finally,  the  way  seems  to  be  opening  for  missionary  exer- 
tions in  Mexico  and  South  America. 

•*  With  these  fields  of  labor  in  the  midst  of  us  and  round 
about  us,  you  cannot  expect  us  to  join  you  in  the  great 
and  good  work  in  which  you  are  engaged  in  the  East. 
Still  we  hope  the  time  is  not  far  distant  when  we  shall 
join  hands  on  the  Asiatic  shores  of  the  Pacific  Ocean.  We 
are  constantly  advancing  in  our  labors  toward  the  West, 
and  you  are  extending  in  the  East,  not  only  on  the  conti- 
nent, but  over  the  islands  of  the  sea.  Is  it  chimerical  then 
to  suppose,  that  at  some  future  day  we  shall  have  encom- 
8 


1824.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAI    OHOttCH.  283 

pas«4  thi,  e.nh,  and  girded  it  round  with  gloriou,  band, 
0.  gospol  truth  r  O  no ;  faith  say,  it  ,hall  I  done.  And 
his  faith  IS  not  without  worlts ;  certainly  not  on  your  part, 
for  we  hear  from  you  that  you  .re  laboring  assiduously  in 
this  great  cause,  imitating  the  illustrious  example  of  enter- 
pnse  and  dJigence  which  so  eminently  marked  the  great 
founder  of  Methodism.     You  aim  at  great  things,  and  you 

.ers,  and  the  liberahty  of  your  people.  In  oj  labors  as 
ministers  we  hope  we  are  not  far  behind  you;  but,  as  a 
people,  we  do  not  ye<  equal  you  in  active  Christian  bene- 
volence.  In  this  respect,  however,  we  are  improving. 
Our  people  are  becoming  more  alive  u,  the  importance  rf 
peater  and  more  systematic  exertions  in  the  c^se  of  the 

p!y.ng  our  numbers,  we  trust  we  have  not  forgotten  that 
.he  great  design  of  Methodism,  the  ultimate  end  of  all  it 
msmutions  IS  to  raise  up  and  preserve,  in  the  midst  of  a 
sinful  world,  a  holy  people.     Without  this,  numbers  and 
mfluence  are  nothing.      We   deprecate  more   .han   any 
tag  else  that  ecclesiastical  pride  which  builds  itself  up 
upon  the  numbers  and  popularity  of  the  church,  while  that 
church  IS  sinking  in  the  spirit  and  tone  of  its  divine  life 
From  such  a  state  of  things,  we  on  both  sides  of  the  water 
are  doubtless  united  in  saying,  Lord,  preserve  us  ;  make 
<«  holy,  and  make  us  instrumental  in  spreading  hoUness 
throughout  the  earth. 

"  We  congratulate  you,  dear  fathers  and  brethren,  on 
e  general  prosperity  that  attends  you,  both  in  your  labor, 
at  home  and  m  your  missions  abroad;  but  especially  on 
account  of  the  perfect  harmony  which  you  infL  usV- 
vails  among  you;  and  we  pray  that  it  may  ever  continue. 
Of  ourselves,  though  we  are  not  able  to  say  quite  as  much, 
yet  m  our  present  General  Conference,  which  is  now 
"early  closing,  amidst  some  differences  of  opinion  con- 

3 


284 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1824. 


cerning  the  modes  of  administration,  we  find  that  we  har- 
monize in  the  essential  principles  of  Methodism.  From 
this  we  are  encouraged  to  hope,  as  intimated  in  his  parting 
advice  to  us  by  your  esteemed  messenger,  the  Rev.  Mr. 
Reece,  that  our  minor  differences  of  opinion  on  other  sub- 
jects will  soon  be  swallowed  up  in  our  attachment  to  the 
common  cause.  You  too,  in  former  days,  have  had  your 
difficulties  ;  but  those  days  have  passed  by,  and  peace  and 
union  now  cheer  you  with  their  benignant  rays.  And  we 
are  hoping  that,  before  we  shall  have  arrived  at  your  age 
and  maturity  as  a  church,  we  shall  overcome  any  little 
difficulties  that  may  now  attend  us. 

"  Brethren,  pray  for  us.  And  may  the  God  of  peace 
dwell  with  us,  and  dwell  with  you.  Finally,  may  this 
great  army  of  the  faithful,  who  in  two  grand  divisions  are 
now  carrying  on  the  warfare  in  both  hemispheres,  so  ac- 
quit themselves  in  the  church  militant  below,  as  ultimately 
to  unite  with  the  church  triumphant  on  high,  where  no 
ocean  shall  roll  between,  and  no  reciprocal  messengers 
of  love  shall  be  needed  to  recount  their  victories  and 
triumphs. 

"  We  are,  dear  fathers  and  brethren,  yours  in  the  bonds 
of  ministerial  labor  and  Christian  love. 

"  Signed  in  behalf  of  the  conference, 

"  Enoch  George,  President. 

''Baltimore,  May,  1824." 

"Note.— In  the  address  sent  to  England  a  few  verbal 
alterations  were  made,  which  should  have  been  inserted  in 
this,  but  were  inadvertently  omitted.  This,  however,  is 
substantially  the  same  with  the  one  sent." 

N.  B.  The  above  address  was  written  by  the  Rev.  Wilbur  Fisk. 
3 


[1824. 

I  that  we  har- 
»dism.  From 
in  his  parting 
the  Rev.  Mr. 
on  other  sub- 
chment  to  the 
ave  had  your 
md  peace  and 
lys.  And  we 
i  at  your  age 
>me  any  Uttle 

5od  of  peace 
illy,  may  this 
divisions  are 
[)heres,  so  ac- 
,  as  ultimately 
gh,  where  no 
1  messengers 
victories  and 

I  in  the  bonds 


,  President. 

a  few  verbal 
m  inserted  in 
,  however,  is 

Wilbur  Fisk. 


1824.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


285 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

From  the  Close  of  the  General  Conference  of  1824  to  the  Commence- 
ment of  that  of  1828. 

1824.  Having,  in  the  preceding  chapter,  detailed  the 
doings  of  the  General  Conference  at  its  last  session,  we 
will  now  proceed  to  notice  the  movements  of  the  Church 
in  her  various  departments  of  labor  for  the  year  1824. 

This  year  the  Rev.  Charles  Elliot  was  appointed  as 
an  assistant  to  Mr.  Finley  on  the  Wyandot  mission. 
Through  their  united  labors  the  work  of  God  spread 
both  among  the  adults  and  the  children  of  the  school. 

The  mission  was  visited  this  year  by  Bishops  M'Ken- 
dree  and  Soule,  who  made  a  thorough  examination  of 
the  premises,  the  state  of  the  Mission-church,  and 
school ;  and  the  report  of  their  interview  with  the  con- 
verted chiefs  gave  a  most  gratifying  view  of  the  general 
aspect  of  things. 

Through  the  influence  of  these  labors,  and  that  of 
the  missionaries  who  had  the  immediate  charge  of  the 
establishment,  the  number  of  Church  members  had  in- 
creased this  year  to  one  hundred  and  sixty,  and  the 
school,  now  under  the  care  of  William  Walker,  the  sub- 
agent,  a  man  fully  competent  to  his  work,  was  in  a 
prosperous  condition.    The  farm  also  was  improving, 
and  yielding  a  partial  supply  for  the  consumption  of  the 
mission  family.    And  what  contributed  mightily  to  the 
prosperity  and  stability  of  the  work,  while  it  gave  irre- 
futable evidence  of  its  depth  and  genuineness,  spirituous 
liquors  were,  by  a  solemn  decree,  banished  from  the 


m 


286 


A  HISTORY    or  THE 


[ld24. 


nation.  Benevolent  individuals,  excited  by  reading  the 
good  news  of  this  great  work,  as  well  as  auxiliary  mis- 
sionary societies,  poured  forth  their  stores  to  aid  the 
cause  of  Indian  missions. 

The  mission  among  the  Mohawks,  in  Upper  Canada, 
was  equally  prosperous.  The  particulars,  however, 
relating  to  this  and  other  missions  in  that  province,  will 
come  more  properly  under  subsequent  dates. 

Since  the  commencement  of  the  Missionary  Society, 
most  of  the  new  ground  which  was  brought  under  cul- 
tivation was  through  the  medium  of  missionaries,  as  well 
in  the  older  parts  of  the  country  as  in  the  new  settle- 
ments in  the  west  and  south-west,  though  in  most 
instances  but  a  partial  support  was  received  from  the 
society. 

This  year  the  Rev.  George  Pickering  was  sent  to 
form  a  new  circuit  in  Newburyport  and  Gloucester,  in 
Massachusetts,  a  region  of  country  hitherto  inaccessible 
to  Methodist  preachers,  except  now  and  then  to  a  tran- 
sient visitor.  His  labors  were  accompanied  with  an 
outpouring  of  the  divine  Spirit,  and  about  one  hundred 
souls  were  brought  to  Christ  iu  the  course  of  the  year ; 
and  thus  a  foundation  was  laid  for  continued  preaching, 
the  people  soon  contributing  to  their  own  support. 

The  Rev.  John  Lindsey  was  appointed  as  a  mission- 
ary to  South  Hadley  and  Sunderland,  Massachusetts, 
where  he  labored  with  such  success  that  the  following 
year  the  mission  was  taken  into  the  regular  work. 

Piscataquis,  in  Maine,  was  occupied  as  missionary 
ground  by  the  Rev.  Oliver  Beale,  and  at  the  end  of  the 
second  year  it  was  included  in  the  regular  work,  with  a 
membership  of  eighty  souls  as  the  fruit  of  his  labors. 

The  work  of  God  in  the  various  domestic  missions 
3 


i 


[Id24. 

reading  the 
s:iliary  mis- 
to  aid  the 

>er  Canada, 
i,  however, 
ovince,  will 

iry  Society, 
under  cul- 
ries,  as  well 
new  settle- 
;h  in  most 
d  from  the 

^as  sent  to 
oucester,  in 
inaccessible 
1  to  a  tran- 
d  with  an 
ne  hundred 
f  the  year ; 
1  preaching, 
pport. 

s  a  mission- 
ssachusetts, 
le  following 

work. 

missionary 
5  end  of  the 
/ork,  with  a 
s  labors. 
Lie  missions 


1824.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


287 


mentioned  under  date  of  last  year  was  in  delightful 
progress,  and  was  extending  in  various  directions  among 
the  new  and  destitute  settlements.     Nor  were  the  older 
parts  of  our  work  without  the  reviving  influences  of  the 
Spirit  of  God.    In  various  parts  of  Delaware  state,  in 
New-Jersey,  the  Suaquehannih  and  Ontario  districts, 
in  the  bounds  of  the  Genesee  conference,  the  New-Ha- 
ven and  Rhinebeck  districts,  New-York  conference, 
there  were  encouraging  revivals  of  the  work  of  God, 
begun  generally  through  the  agency  of  camp  meetings' 
and  then  carried  forward  by  a  faithful  attention  to  the 
means  of  grace  in  the  circuits  and  stations. 

In  Telfair  county,  in  the  state  of  Georgia,  where 
religion  had  been  at  a  low  ebb  for  several  years,  the 
work  of  God  commenced  at  a  crmp  meeting  held  near 
the  fork  of  the  Oconee  and  Oakmulgee  rivers,  and 
thence  spread  in  various  directions  through  the  adja- 
cent neighborhoods.      The  presiding  elder,   the  Rev. 
John  J.  Triggs,  relates  the  following  anecdote  respecting 
a  Baptist  preacher  who  attended  the  meetmg  and  par- 
ticipated in  its  exercises :— "  In  the  midst  of  the  work  he 
arose  on  the  stand,  and  declared  to  the  congregation 
that  he  had  no  doubt  but  this  was  the  work  of  God  • 
and  warned  the  people,  especially  professors  of  other 
denominations,  of  the  dangerous  consequences  of  oppos- 
ing God's  work  and  of  fighting  against  him.    He  then 
told  them  that  he  felt  as  solemn  as  death,  and,  lifting 
up  his  eyes  and  hands  toward  heaven,  prayed  God  to 
send  holy  fire  among  the  people.    An  awful  solemnity 
rested  on  the  assembly,  and  the  power  of  the  Highest 
overshadowed  them.     Some  fell  to  the  ground,  and 
others  cried  aloud  for  mercy."    The  meeting  resulted 
in  the  conversion  of  thirty-four,  and  a  number  returned 

3 


288 


A    HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1824. 


n> 


to  their  homes  under  deep  conv  ction  for  sin,  resolved 
on  a  reformation  of  heart  and  hfe. 

The  cause  of  education  was  daily  advancing  from 
one  annual  conference  to  another,  and  exerting  an  en- 
lightening influence  both  on  the  young  and  the  old. 
This  year  an  academy  was  established  in  Cazenovia, 
in  the  bounds  of  the  Genesee  conference,  a  portion  of 
our  country  fast  increasing  in  population,  wealth,  and 
civil  and  religious  enterprise.  It  was  incorporated  by 
the  state  legislature,  and  opened  its  doors  for  the  educa- 
tion of  youth  of  both  sexes;  and  such  has  been  its 
prosperity,  that  it  has  continued,  enlarging  its  dimen- 
sions and  extending  the  sphere  of  its  influence,  from 
that  day  to  this,  much  to  the  credit  of  its  founders  and 
patrons,  and  greatly  to  the  advantage  of  the  rising 
generation.  This,  as  well  as  the  others  which  have 
been  named,  was  brought  strictly  under  a  religious  in- 
fluence, so  that  the  principles  of  Christianity  might  be 
imbodied  in  the  heart,  as  far  as  practicable,  simultane- 
ously with  the  growth  of  literature  and  science.  And 
the  pious  objects  of  its  patrons  have  been  in  a  good 
degree  realized  in  the  conversion,  from  time  to  time,  of 
quite  a  number  of  the  students. 

In  proportion  to  the  increase  of  preachers  the  number 
of  locations  was  diminished,  there  being  this  year  only 
forty-eight ;  whereas,  as  might  be  expected^  the  num- 
ber of  supernumeraries  and  superannuated  was  gradu- 
ally increasing  in  nearly  all  the  annual  conferences, 
there  being  this  year  of  the  former  forty-three,  and  of 
the  latter  sixty-seven.  Three  had  been  expelled  and 
nine  had  died  during  the  past  year.  These  last  were, 
Charles  Trescott,  David  Gray,  John  Wallace,  Jo- 
seph Kinkaid,  Peyton  Andersouj  Enoch  Johnson, 
3 


[1824. 
sin,  resolved 

ancing  from 
jrting  an  en- 
and  the  old. 
I  Cazenovia, 
a  portion  of 
wealtJi,  and 
Drporated  by 
3r  the  educa- 
has  been  its 
g  its  dimen- 
duence,  from 
founders  and 
)f  the  rising 
which  have 
religious  in- 
ity  might  be 
e,  simultane- 
dence.  And 
n  in  a  good 
16  to  time,  of 

3  the  number 
liis  year  only 
edj  the  num- 
l  was  gradu- 
conferences, 
three,  and  of 
expelled  and 
5se  last  were, 
Wallace,  Jo- 
^h  Johnson, 


1824.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  289 

Richard  McAllister,  Mordecai  Barry,  Louis  R 
Fetchhg,  and  James  Akins.  It  is  no  slight  evidence 
of  the  truth  and  excellence  of  the  gospel,  that  it  enables 
Its  advocates  to  die  in  the  full  possession  of  its  promised 
blessmgs.  Of  the  above-mentioned  brethren  it  is  re- 
corded  that,  having  discharged  their  Christian  and 
ministerial  duties  with  fidelity,  they  all  made  a  peaceful 
and  triumphant  exit  from  time  to  eternity,  thus  sealing 
the  truths  they  had  preached  to  others  with  their  own 
lips  m  that  most  trying  hour. 

0(  Peyton  Anderson,  particularly,  excellent  things 
are  said.     He  was  born  February  9th,  1795,  in  Ches- 
terfield county,  Virginia.     Favored  with  the  advantages 
of  a  good  education  in  his  youth,  and  being  brought 
under  the  mfluence  of  gospel  truth,  at  an  early  age  he 
was  made  a  partaker  of  pardoning  mercy  by  faith  in 
Jesus  Christ.     In  his  nineteenth  year  he  commenced 
the  work  of  an  itinerant  minister,  and  gave  early  indi- 
cations of  those  talents  as  a  preacher,  and  of  that  zeal 
m  the  cause  of  God,  which  afterward  distinguished  him 
m  his  short  career  of  usefulness.     In  his  public  exercises, 
as  well  as  in  his  private  intercourse,  he  was  remarkable 
for  the  seriousness  of  his  manner,  arising,  no  doubt 
from  the  sincerity  of  his  heart,  and  his  deep  devotion  to 
the  cause  of  God. 

He  had  a  discriminating  mind,  and  could  therefore 
easily  distinguish  between  truth  and  error,  and  nicely 
balance  the  relative  claims  of  the  several  objects  which 
were  lawful  for  mankind  to  pursue.  And  his  deep 
solemnity  m  the  pulpit,  Lis  ready  command  of  appro- 
priate language,  the  fervor  of  his  spirit,  and  evident 
aincenty  of  purpose,  gave  an  impressiveness  to  all  his 
discourses,  which  fastened  the  truths  he  uttered  upon 

19  8 


290 


A   HI8T0RT    OF   THE 


[1824. 


the  hearts  of  his  hearers.  Though  comparatively 
young  in  Christian  experience  and  in  the  ministry  of 
the  word,  yet  he  had  learned  much  in  the  school  of 
Christ,  having  passed  through  some  severe  struggles 
of  mind,  and  wrestled  in  the  strength  of  mighty  faith 
and  prayer  against  the  violence  of  temptation^  in  which 
he  was  "  more  than  a  conqueror  through  Him  who  had 
loved  him."  He  was  therefore  able  lo  administer  spirit- 
ual consolation  to  those  who  were  in  trouble,  and  to 
admonish  such  of  their  danger  who  were  "  wTestling 
against  principalities  and  powers,"  as  well  as  to  point 
them  to  the  only  source  whence  their  help  was  to  be 
derived. 

Having  drunk  deeply  at  the  fountain  of  divine  love, 
his  heart  expanded  with  benevolent  feeUngs  toward 
mankind  generally,  for  whose  salvation  he  longed  and 
labored  with  all  diligence.  Hence  the  Missionary  So- 
ciety found  in  him  a  warm  friend  and  zealous  advocate, 
and  he  was  instrumental  in  promoting  its  noble  objects 
by  the  formation  of  branch  societies,  and  by  stirring  up 
a  spirit  of  liberality  among  the  people  of  his  charge 
And  what  rendered  his  precepts  more  weighty  and 
influential,  they  were  constantly  enforced  by  his  own 
example,  both  as  respects  the  piety  of  his  heart,  the 
uniformity  of  his  life,  and  the  burning  charity  with 
which  he  exemplified  the  living  principle  of  his  faith. 

In  his  last  sickness  and  death  the  graces  of  Chris- 
tianity shone  out  with  lustre,  and  eclipsed  in  his  view 
all  the  fading  glories  of  this  world.  While  his  friends 
were  standing  around  his  dying  bed,  and  watching 
with  anxious  hearts  the  issue  of  his  conflict,  and  beheld 
the  fitful  ebbings  and  flowings  of  animal  life,  he  said  to 
them,  in  the  language  of  faith  and  hope,  "  Farewell, 
3 


imparatively 
ministry  of 
he  school  of 
re  struggles 
nighty  faith 
m^  in  which 
im  who  had 
Inister  spirit- 
able,  and  to 
"wrestling 
\  as  to  point 
p  was  to  be 

divine  love, 
ings  toward 

longed  and 
issionary  So- 
»us  advocate, 
aoble  objects 
y  stirring  up 

his  charge 
veighty  and 

by  his  own 
is  heart,  the 
charity  with 
f  his  faith. 
;es  of  Chris- 

in  his  view 
G  his  friends 
id  watching 
t,  and  beheld 
fe,  he  said  to 
,  "Farewell, 


1825.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  291 

H!?h?'    T^J^l"^  '"'  '""''  "^"^'^ ''  ^"^  be  in  heaven." 
He  hus  ended  his  mortal  career  August  27,  1823   in 

he  twenty-mnth  year  of  his  age,  and  tenth  of  his  pul^ 
lie  ministry.  ^ 

Thus  a  bright  light  in  the  church  militant  became 

Mysterious  are  the  ways  of  Providence !  Had  our  bro- 
ther Anderson  Uved  to  the  common  age  of  man  and 
gone  on  improving  as  he  had  begun,  under  the "n^es 
of  h.s  heavenly  Father,  he  doubUess  would  have  rfaen 
to  emmence  in  the  church  of  God,  and  been  agTea" 

from  the  beginnmg,"  and  whose  "thouffhtsare  not  «. 
our  though^'-  in  thus  fuIfilHng  the  oriST  d"de 

Z:f  "^V'"""  •"'"' '"  ''^'""^  h^  ^-vantTo  hi 
eternal  reward  in  early  life,  manifested  his  sovereisn 
ng  t  over  the  work  of  his  hands,  and  challenJeT  |e 
P»«s  subm^,on  of  his  people  to  the  wisdom  and  go.^! 
less  of  his  dispensations. 

Number  of  Church  members. 

Whites.         Colored.  Total.       Preacher. 

This  year        880,427      48,096    328,533     it^' 
Last  year        267,618      44,922  ^540     1,226 
Increase         12,809        3,174      15,9^    —J^ 

1825.  A  work  of  grace  commenced  this  year  among 
rt^  Mississauga  Indians  in  Upper  Canada.  Thel 
were  among  the  most  degraded  of  all  the  Indian  tribe^ 
Id   «""«'y-   Prom  their  habita  of  intercourse  amlt 

for  mtoxicatmg  liquor,  had  debased  themselves  by  in 
•eaperance,  and  were  consequenUy  lazy,  idle,  poor,  and 

3 


292 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1825. 


vjn  ' 


filthy  to  a  most  disgusting  degree.     They  seemed,  in- 
deed, to  be  abandoned  to  a  most  cruel  fate. 

Among  others  who  had  embraced  the  Lord  Jesus 
during  the  work  among  the  Mohawks  was  Peter  Jones, 
a  half-breed,  his  mother  being  a  Mississuuga  and  his 
father  an  Englishman.     Mr.  Jones,  Peters  father,  had 
betii  the  king's  surveyor,  and  his  occupation  leading 
him  much  among  the  Indians,  during  the  days  of  his 
vanity  he  formed  an  intimacy  with  two  Indian  women, 
the  one  n  Mohawk  princess  and  the  other  a  Mississauga 
woman.     About  the  year  1801,  Mr.  Jones,  under  the 
Methodist  ministrv,  was  awakened  and  converted   o 
God.     He  then  Ivlt  it  his  duty  to  repudiate  one  of  his 
women,  and  he  separated  himself  from  the  mother  of 
Peter,  the  Mississauga,  and  married  the  other,  who  also 
embraced  religion,  and  became  a  pious  member  of  the 
Church.      Peter  followed  his  mother  into  the  woods, 
and  remained  with  ^lis  tribe  until  he  was  about  tv»elve 
years  of  age,  when  his  father  brought  him  from  the 
wilderness  and  sent  him  to  an  Enghsh  school.     While 
here,  through  the  preaching  of  the  gospel,  he  also  was 
brought  from  darkness  to  light  i    and,  understanding 
both  languages,  he  was  at  first  employed  as  an  inter- 
preter, and  finally  became  eminently  useful  as  a  minis 
ter  of  the  Lord  Jesus. 

Feeling,  after  his  conversion,  for  the  salvation  of  his 
wretched  tribe,  he  hasted  away  to  them,  and  told  them 
what  great  things  God  had  done  for  his  soul.  This 
had  a  i>owerful  efTect  upon  their  minds,  and  led  them 
to  attend  the  meetings  on  the  Grand  liver. 

A  relative  of  Peter  Jones,  one  of  theii  chiefs,  while 
attending  thebe  meetings,  was  led  to  the  Lord  Jesus  for 

SaiVMUuw,  auu.  mo  io.ii-.ixj  nVvx»  xvnv^  »»■>-"•  --^  — j— -      — 


4 


;  y  .V 


[1825. 
seemed,  in- 

LiOrd  Jesus 
*eter  Jones, 
ra  and  his 
father,  had 
on  leading 
days  of  his 
an  women, 
^ississauga 
under  the 
Duverted  ai 
one  of  his 
3  mother  of 
;r,  who  also 
■nbcr  of  the 
the  woods, 
bout  twelve 
m  from  the 
jol.  While 
he  also  was 
derstanding 
IS  an  inter- 
as  a  minis 

nation  of  his 
id  told  them 
soul.  This 
id  led  them 

chiefs,  while 

nrd  Jesus  for 

\t^na.  Others 
'~i —    — 


1825.] 


METHODIST  EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


29« 


followed  their  example,  and,  through  the  pious  exertioii.r 
of  this  converted  chief  and  Peter  Jones,  a  reformation 
was  effected  this  year  among  these  degraded  Mississau- 
gas,  of  such  a  character,  so  thorough  and  genuine,  that 
nil  who  beheld  it  were  astonished,  and  could  not  but 
acknowledge  the  hand  of  God.     They  abandoned  the 
use  of  intoxicating  liquor,  forsook  their  heathenish  and 
ii.»moral  practices,  were  baptized  and  received  into  the 
communion  of  the  Church,  and  demonstrated,  by  their 
subsequent  conduct,  that  the  work  was  indeed  the  ivork 
of  God.     A  white  man,  who  had  made  his  house  the 
resort  for  drunken  whites  and  Indians,  seeing  the  visi- 
ble change  in  the  temper  and  conduct  of  these  Indians, 
could  but  acknowledge  the  finger  of  God,  was  struck 
under  conviction,  became  a  sincere  convert,  banished 
from  his  house  his  drunken  companions,  became  sober 
and  industrious,   and   devoted  both  himself  and  his 
house  to  the  service  of  God.     The  whole  number  con- 
verted at  this  time  was  fifty-four,  seven  of  whom  were 
whites. 

About  the  same  time  that  this  good  work  was  going 
on  so  gloriously  among  the  Mipsissaugas,  a  similar 
work  commenced  amon<^  a  branch  of  the  Delc.warea 
and  Chippeways,  who  were  settled  at  Muncytown,  on 
the  river  Thames.  This  work  began  through  the  in- 
strumentality of  a  Mohawk  by  the  name  of  Jacob,  who 
had  raised  himself  to  respectability  among  them  by  his 
sober  and  industrious  habits.  Until  he  heard  the  truths 
of  the  gospel  he  thought  himself  a  very  good  and  happy 
man,  and  was  so  considered  by  his  brethren  ;  but  when 
tlie  light  of  divine  truth  shone  upon  hi^  mind  he  saw 
himself  a  dnnei  against  God,  his  fancied  goodness  and 
— j.j.„.x.,n~  it^^^  ^^^^^^  ^^^;^  rcsied  noi  uniii  ne  lounu  peace 


294 


A   HISTORY    OF   THE 


[1825. 


f  r 


B. 


with  God  through  faith  in  the  Lord  Jesuig.  No  sooner 
did  this  great  change  take  place  in  Jacob's  heart  than 
he  went  among  his  brethren,  who  were  wallowing  in 
the  mire  of  iniquity  and  heathenish  practices,  address- 
ing them  from  one  cabin  to  another,  warning  them^  in 
the  most  affectionate  manner,  of  the  danger  to  which 
they  were  exposed,  and  beseeching  them  to  be  recon- 
ciled to  God.  "  The  Great  Spirit,"  said  he,  in  imper- 
fect English,  "  is  angry.  You  must  die.  Now  consider 
where  the  wicked  man  must  go.  We  must  be  born 
neiD  men.  Our  heart  new.  His  Spirit  make  us  new 
heart.     Then,  O !  much  peace,  much  joy. ^^ 

Another  among  the  first  converts  was  an  Indian  of  a 
very  different  character,  and  therefore  the  change  was 
the  more  apparent  and  convincing.     He  was  so  given 
up  to  intoxication  that  he  would  barter  any  thing  he 
had  for  vile  whisky.     At  one  time  he  offered  his  bullock 
for  whisky,  and,  because  his  neighbors  would  not  pur- 
chase it,  in  a  violent  rage  he  attempted  to  destroy  tbe 
creature.      At  another  time,  having  sold  his  clothes 
from  his  back  for  whisky,  he  stole  from  his  wife  the 
seed  corn  she  had  carefully  preserved  for  planting,  and 
offered  it  for  the  "  fire  waters,"  but  was  prevented  from 
thus  robbing  his  wife  of  the  means  of  future  subsistence 
by  one  of  our  friends,  who  purchased  it  and  returned  it 
to  the  squaw,  upon  whose  labor  in  the  field  the  family 
chiefly  depended  for  bread.     But  even  this  man,  vile  as 
he  was,  who,  in  his  drunken  fits,  was  one  of  the  most 
quarrelsome  wretches  that  could  haunt  a  human  habit- 
ation, became   reformed  by  the  power  of  the  gospel. 
That  his  reformation  was  thorough,  was  evidenced  by 
the  soberness,  piety,  and  industriousness  of  his  subse- 
(juent  life.     The  conversion  of  two  such  men  had  a 
8 


[1825. 

No  sooner 
heart  than 
lUowing  in 
es,  address- 
ig  them^  in 
sr  to  which 
a  be  recon- 
,  in  imper- 
ow  consider 
1st  be  born 
ike  us  new 

Indian  of  a 
:hange  was 
^as  so  given 
ly  thing  he 
1  his  bullock 
lid  not  pur- 
destroy  the 

his  clothes 
tiis  wife  the 
anting,  and 
vented  from 
'.  subsistence 
1  returned  it 
d  the  family 
man,  vile  as 
of  the  most 
urnan  habit- 

the  gospel. 

videnced  by 

►f  his  subse- 

men  had  a 


1825.] 


METHODIST  EPISCOPAL   OHUROH. 


399 


most  powerful  efTect  upon  the  whole  tribe.  Many  of 
them  embraced  the  gospel,  and  a  school  was  soon  esta- 
blished for  the  education  of  their  children  and  youth. 

The  labors  of  Peter  Jones  were  highly  usefiil  in  con- 
ducting these  missions.    He  interpreted  for  the  mission- 
aries, and  often  addressed  his  Indian  brethren,  from  the 
fulness  of  his  own  heart,  with  great  effect.     Many  were 
the  objections  which  the  pagan  Indians  raised  against 
the  gospel,  some  of  them  founded  in  truth,  and  some 
from  false  representations  circulated  among  them  by 
the  enemies  of  Christianity.     These  objections  were 
obviated  by  distinguishing  between  real  and  nominal 
Christians,  and  by  showing  that  the  latter  disgraced 
themselves  by  abusing  the  holy  doctrines  and  high  pri- 
vileges to  which  they  were  called,  and  in  which  they 
professed  to  believe.      It  was,  indeed,  painful  to  be 
obliged  to  concede  the  fact,  that  hitherto  the  Indiana 
had  been  imposed  upon  by  the  cupidity  of  white  men, 
under  the  garb  of  Christianity ;  but  this  conduct  was 
disclaimed  and  condemned  by  the  missionaries,  and  the 
example  of  those  who  now  came  among  them,  and  of 
the  new  converts,  was  presented  as  an  ample  refutation 
of  all  the  slanderous  representations  of  their  adversaries. 
This  silenced  the  clamor,  and  gave  confidence  to  the 
friends  of  the  cause. 

Several  attempts  had  been  made,  but  with  little  suc- 
cess hitherto,  to  establish  Methodism  in  the  city  of  New- 
Orleans,  a  place  which  needed  the  reforming  influence 
of  the  gospel  as  much,  perhaps,  as  any  on  the  con- 
tinent. 

This  city,  which  is  now  equal  in  importance,  in  a 
commercial  point  of  view,  to  any  in  the  United  States, 
was  first  settled  by  the  French,  toward  the  close  of  tha 

3 


M  - 


y 


[^^^Pf 


d§6  A  KlSYOltt  OF   ffiB  [1825 

seventeenth  century,  and  the  Roman  Cathdlic  religion 
was  incorporated  with  its  civil  regulations.  The  pro- 
gress of  the  settlement,  like  all  the  others  in  that  region 
of  country,  for  a  number  of  years  was  extremely  slow, 
owing  to  a  variety  of  causes,  but  chiefly  to  the  wars 
between  France  and  Spain,  to  the  unhealthiness  of  the 
climate,  and  the  want  of  industry  and  enterprise  among 
the  original  settlers.  In  1763,  that  part  of  Louisiana 
west  of  the  Mississippi  and  Pearl  rivers,  of  which  New- 
Orleans  was  the  capital,  was  ceded  to  Spain,  and  so 
remained  until  1801,  when  it  passed  into  the  hands  oi 
the  French  republic,  from  whom  it  was  transferred,  in 
1804,  by  purchase,  to  the  United  States.  At  this  time 
the  population,  chiefly  French  Roman  Catholics,  num- 
bered about  twelve  thousand ;  but  from  that  pciiod  the 
increase  of  its  citizens  was  much  more  rapid,  by  emi- 
grants from  various  parts  of  the  Union,  so  that,  at  the 
time  of  which  we  now  speak,  there  were  probably  not 
less  than  forty  thousand.  These  Anglo-Americans, 
mingling  with  the  Creoles  of  the  country,  gradually  in- 
troduced their  habits  and  modes  of  Uving,  as  well  as 
their  religious  tenets. 

But  though  New-Orleans  was  thus  early  settled,  and 
possessed  so  many  local  advantages  for  commerce,  as 
before  said,  its  progress  was  slow,  and  ths  population 
were  encumbered  with  all  those  embarrassments  arising 
out  of  the  peculiarities  of  the  Roman  Catholic  religion. 
In  1818,  three  years  after  the  memorable  victory  of  the 
American  army  under  General  Jackson,  the  city  con- 
tained about  thirty-six  thousand  inhabitants,  most  of 
whom  were  descendants  of  the  French  and  Spaniards. 
And  until  about  the  year  1820,  when  a  Presbyterian 
church  was  erected,  there  was  no  place  of  worship  be 


[1825 

idlic  religion 
The  pro- 

that  region 
emely  slow, 
to  the  wars 
liness  of  the 
prise  among 
if  Louisiana 
which  New- 
ain,  and  so 
he  hands  oi 
msferred,  in 
At  this  time 
holies,  num- 
it  period  the 
pid,  by  emi- 

that,  at  the 
)robably  not 
^Americans, 
gradually  in- 
r,  as  well  as 

^  settled,  and 
immerce,  as 
3  population 
nents  arising 
lolic  religion, 
ictory  of  the 
he  city  con- 
nts,  most  of 
i  Spaniards. 
Pres'uyterian 
worship  be 


1825.] 


METHODIST   EPIlSCOPAL   CHURCH. 


2^7 


sides  the  two  Roman  CAtholic  churches.      It  is  said, 
indeed,  that  the  sabbath  was  generally  desecrated  by 
profane  sports  and  plays,  the  principles  of  morality  ex 
ceedingly  relaxed,  pure  religion  little  understood,  and 
its  precepts  less  exemplified  in  practical  life. 

Among  others  who  were  lured  to  New-Orleans  for 
the  purposes  of  traffic  from  the  other  states  were  some 
members  of  our  Church,  who  spent  the  winter  months 
in  the  city,  but,  on  account  of  the  insalubrity  of  the  cli- 
mate, retreated  to  their  former  places  of  abode  during 
the  heat  of  summer.     These,  however,  beholding  the 
degraded  state  of  society,  and  feeling  the  deleterious  in- 
fluence of  such  a  general  inattention  to  religion,  called 
upon  the  authorities  of  the  Church  for  help.     According- 
ly, in  the  year  1819,  the  Rev.  Mark  Moore  was  sent  to 
New-Orleans,  and  he  preached,  under  many  discourag- 
ing circumstances,  to  a  few  in  a  room  which  was  hired 
for  that  purpse,  and  some  ineffectual  efforts  were  made 
to  build  a  church.    In  1820  the  Rev.  John  Manifee 
was  sent  as  a  missionary  to  New-Orleans,  and  in  the 
same  year  the  place  was  visited  by  the  Rev.  Ehenezer 
Brown,  who,  being  disappointed  in  his  attempts  to  gain 
access  to  the  French  population  in  Louisiana,  assisted 
Mr.  Manifee  in  preaching  to  an  English  congregation 
in  the  city.    From  this  time  until  1824  New-Orleans 
seems  to  have  been  forsaken  by  the  Methodist  preach- 
ers thinking  probably  that  it  -vas  useless  to  spend  their 
strength  to  so  little  purpose,  for  I  find  no  returns  of  any 
members  of  the  Church  until  the  year  1825.     In  1824 
the  Rev.  Daniel  Hall  stands  as  a  missionary  for  New- 
Orleans,  but  the  prospect  was  yet  but  gloomy. 

This  year,  1825,  the  Mississippi  district  was  :>ced 
in  charge  of  the  Rev.  William  Winans-,  whose  emi- 

8 


298 


A  HISTORY   OF   THE 


M 


if 


[1825. 

nent  talents  as  a  preacher,  and  indefatigable  labors  as 
a  presiding  elder  in  that  part  of  the  country,  gave  a 
more  vigoroua  impulse  to  the  work  of  God ;  and  New- 
Orleans  was  blessed  with  the  labors  of  the  Rev.  Ben- 
jamin Drake,  who  was  instrumeiital  in  reviving  the 
hopes  of  the  few  pious  souls  who  prayed  and  sighed  for 
the  salvation  of  Israel  in  that  place ;  for  we  find  that  in 
1826  there  were  returned  on  the  Minutes  of  conference 
eighty-three  members,  twenty-three  whites  and  sixty 
colored.  But  still  the  work  of  God  went  on  slowly,  the 
preachers  having  to  contend  with  a  host  of  opposition 
from  without  and  feebleness  within  the  Church,  with 
the  unheakhiness  of  the  climate,  and  the  want  of  suita- 
ble accommodations  for  holding  their  meetings.  The 
next  year,  however,  the  society  had  increased  to  one 
hundred  in  ail.  From  this  time  the  work  has  stead- 
ily advanced,  and  they  have  finally  succeeded,  by 
struggling  hard  with  difficulties  of  various  sorts,  in 
erecting  a  large  and  elegant  house  of  worship,  so  that 
in  1838  they  numbered  six  hundred  and  twenty-five 
members,  five  hundred  and  seventy  of  whom  were 
colored,  chiefly,  I  believe,  slaves. 

Mobile  and  Pensacola,  about  fifty  miles  apart,  the 
former  in  Alabama  and  the  latter  in  Florida,  were  sup- 
plied last  year  and  this  with  the  preaching  of  the  gospel. 
Under  the  patronage  of  the  Missionary  Society,  the 
Rev.  Henry  P.  Cook  was  sent  to  these  places.  His 
deep  piety  and  faithful  exertions  in  the  cause  of  Christ 
goon  gave  him  a  commanding  and  salutary  influence 
among  the  people  of  his  charge. 

Since  Mobile  has  been  connected  with  the  United 
States,  by  the  cession  of  Louisiana,  it  has  filled  up 
rapidly  with  inhabitants,  has  become  an  incorporated 
3 


[1825. 

)le  labors  as 
ntry,  gave  a 
;  and  New- 
e  Rev.  Ben- 
reviving  the 
[id  sighed  for 
i  find  that  in 
)f  conference 
js  and  sixty 
n  slowly,  the 
of  opposition 
Dhurch,  with 
i^ant  of  suita- 
3tings.  The 
eased  to  one 
k  has  stead- 
icceeded,  by 
ous  sorts,  in 
rship,  so  that 
i  twenty-five 
whom  were 

les  apait,  the 
da,  were  sup- 
of  the  gospel. 
Society,  the 
places.  His 
use  of  Christ 
ary  influence 

1  the  United 

has  filled  up 

incorporated 


1825.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL   CHURCH. 


209 


city,  a  port  of  entry,  and  a  place  of  considerable  trade ; 
but,  like  most  of  the  towns  included  in  that  tract  of 
country,  the  people  generally  were  quite  neglectful  of 
their  spiritual  and  eternal  interests  until  visited  by  the 
Methodist  itinerants.  Mr.  Cook,  however,  was  cordiaUy 
received  by  a  few,  and  he  succeeded  in  raising  a  flou- 
rishing society,  adopted  measures  for  building  a  house 
of  worship,  which  was  finaUy  completed,  and  the  so- 
ciety has  continued  to  flourish  to  the  present  time.  Nor 
will  the  name  of  Henry  P.  Cook  be  soon  forgotten  by 
the  inhabitants  of  Mobile.  He  fell  a  martyr  to  his  work 
in  that  place  this  year,  leaving  behind  him  the  savor  of 
a  good  name,  and  numerous  evidences  of  his  deep  de- 
votion to  his  work,  and  of  his  love  to  the  souls  of  men. 

Pensacola  was  also  becoming  a  town  of  considerable 
importance  in  that  part  of  Florida,  and  Mr.  Cook  was 
instrumental  in  raising  a  small  society  in  that  place, 
which,  however,  has  fluctuated  from  time  to  time, 
struggling  with  various  difficulties,  until,  in  the  year 
1828,  they  succeeded  in  building  a  meeting-house,  in 
which  they  assembled  for  the  worship  of  God. 

While  attending  to  these  two  places,  as  the  principal 
scene  of  his  labors,  in  passing  from  one  to  the  other, 
Mr.  Cook  preached  to  some  scattered  inhabitants  along 
the  Escambia  river,  in  West  Florida,  which  was  after- 
ward occupied  as  a  separate  mission  field. 

Tallahassee,  in  another  part  of  Florida,  was  also 
provided  with  the  means  of  grace  this  year.  The  Eev. 
John  Slade  was  sent  to  this  region  of  country  as  a 
missionary,  and  he  succeeded  in  forming  a  society  of 
seventy-three  members,  sixty  whites  and  thirteen 
colored. 

The  Early  mission,  in  a  neighboring  region  of  coun- 

8 


J.  1 


300 


A    HISTORY   OF    THE 


[1826. 

try,  was  so  successfully  cultivated  by  the  Rev.  Morgan 
C.  Turrentine,  who  was  sent  to  form  the  circuit,  that 
he  returned  no  less  than  one  hundred  and  thirty-six 
members,  eighteen  of  whom  were  people  of  color.  This 
year  was  the  commencement  of  a  work  which  has  con- 
tinued to  spread  in  that  part  of  Florida  until  several 
circuits  have  been  formed,  on  which  are  large  and  flou- 
rishing societies.  Such  were  the  blessed  results  of  the 
missionary  spirit  pervading  our  ranks  at  that  time,  and 
which  has  continued  to  rise  and  diffuse  its  hallowing 
influences  in  every  direction  among  the  people. 

In  addition  to  those  missions  which  included  the  more 
remote  settlements  in  the  exterior  parts  of  our  work,  it 
was  found,  on  examination,  that  there  were  many 
places  in  the  older  countries  which  had  been  overlooked 
by  all  denominations,  being  too  remote  from  the  centre 
of  population  for  the  people  to  attend  the  stated  places 
of  worship.     Such  were  the  Highland  and  Hampshire 
missions,  in  the  bounds  of  the  New-York  conference; 
the  former  embracing  a  destitute  population  in  the  midst 
of  the  Highlands,  a  mountainous  and  rather  poor  region 
of  country,  about  sixty  miles  north  of  the  city  of  New- 
York  ;    the  latter  a  district  of  country  in  the  north- 
western part  of  Massachusetts.     The  Rev.  John  J. 
Matthias  was  this  year  appointed  to  labor  in  the  High- 
lands, and  such  was  the  success  of  his  zealous  efforts, 
that  at  the  end  of  tlie  first  year  he  returned  one  hun- 
dred and   thirty-four  Church   members,  and  at  the 
termination  of  the  second  the  people  manifested  a 
willingness  and  an  ability  to  support  themselves.    It 
hr  s  accordingly  since  been  included  among  the  regular 

circuits. 

The  Rev.  Parmele  Chamberlin  was  sent  to  the 

d 


[1826. 

lev.  Morgan 

circuit,  that 
md  thirty-six 
f  color.  This 
liich  has  con- 
until  several 
irge  and  flou- 
results  of  the 
hat  time,  and 
its  hallowing 
jople. 

ided  the  more 
■  our  work,  it 

were  many 
en  overlooked 
)m  the  centre 

stated  places 
id  Hampshire 
k  conference; 
m  in  the  midst 
ler  poor  region 

city  of  New- 
in  the  north- 
Rev.  John  J. 
r  in  the  High- 
sealous  efforts, 
:ned  one  hun- 
,  and  at  the 

manifested  a 
bemselves.  It 
ng  the  regular 

s  sent  to  the 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


30. 


1825.] 

Hampshire  mission.  This  was  found  a  more  difficult 
place  to  plant  the  tree  of  Methodism.  Success,  how- 
ever, finally  crowned  the  persevering  efforts  of  God's 
servant,  so  that,  at  the  end  of  four  years,  this  was  also 
taken  into  the  regular  work. 

While  the  work  was  thus  extending  itself  in  new 
places,  and  causing  "  the  wilderness  and  solitary  places 
to  be  glad  for"  the  coming  of  these  heralds  of  salvation, 
the  older  circuits  and  stations  were  blessed  with  the  re- 
viving influences  of  God's  Spirit.  Indeed,  it  was  the 
vigorous  action  in  the  heart  of  the  body  which  gave 
such  a  lively  pulsation  to  the  extremities.  And  what 
contributed  not  a  little  to  diffuse  this  healthy  action 
throughout  the  entire  body  was  the  publication  of  the 
Methodist  Magazine,  now  arrived  to  the  eighth  A^olume, 
and  which  conveyed  in  its  monthly  numbers  the  news 
of  what  God  was  doing  for  the  various:  tribes  of  men. 
Many  testimonies  to  the  salutary  influence  of  this  peri- 
odical on  the  interests  of  religion  might  be  adduced 
from  those  preachers  and  others  who  were  the  most 
actively  engaged  in  building  up  the  walls  of  Zion. 
From  the  pages  of  the  volume  for  this  year,  it  appears 
evident  that  God  was  pouring  out  his  Spirit  on  various 
parts  of  his  vineyard,  watering  and  reviving  the  souls 
of  his  people,  and  converting  sinners  from  the  error  of 
their  ways. 

A  glorious  work  of  God  commenced  in  the  latter  part 
of  last  year  in  Chilicothe,  Ohio,  which  resulted  in  an 
addition  to  the  Church  in  that  place,  by  the  month  of 
February  of  this  year,  of  two  hundred  and  twenty-eight 
members.  From  the  time  of  the  revival  in  this  town 
in  1818  and  1819,  them  had  been  a  diminution  in  their 
number,  owing  chiefly  to  removals  still  farther  west ; 

3 


302  A   HISTORY   OF    THE  [1825. 

but  this  gracious  work  not  only  made  up  their  loss,  but 
also  added  new  strength  to  the  society,  and  increased 
their  numbers  very  considerably. 

Through  the  means  of  camp  and  quarterly  meetings 
there  was  a  great  work  of  God  on  the  Ontario  district, 
then  under  the  charge  of  the  Rev.  George  Lane. 
This  good  work  spread  through  all  that  region  of  coun- ' 
try,  so  that  the  increase  of  members  on  that  district  for 
this  year  was  upward  of  one  thousand. 

The  Genesee  district  was  also  visited  with  showers 
of  divine  grace,  and  most  of  the  circuits  shared  in  their 
refreshing  influences. 

In  Bridgetown,  New-Jersey,  where  religion  had  been 
languishing  for  some  time,  a  gracious  work  of  God 
commenced,  which  resulted  in  the  conversion  of  about 
one  hundred  souls,  most  of  whom  became  members  of 
the  Church. 

In  Newark  also,  New-Jersey,  there  was  a  manifest 
display  of  the  grace  of  God  in  the  awakening  and  con- 
version of  souls,  under  the  labors  of  the  Rev.  William 
Thacher.  It  began  by  urging  upon  believers  the  ne- 
cessity of  "  going  on  unto  perfection,"  or  the  seeking 
after  holiness  of  heart  and  life ;  and  no  sooner  did  they 
feel  the  enlivening  influences  of  the  Holy  Spirit  in  their 
own  souls,  than  the  work  spread  among  the  una- 
wakened  part  of  the  community,  and  very  soon  fifty 
souls  were  added  to  the  Church,  and  great  seriousness 
rested  on  the  congregation  generally. 

On  Coeyman's  circuit,  New- York  state,  there  was  a 
general  revival  of  the  work  of  God.  This  also  com- 
menced among  the  professors  of  religion,  who  were 
induced  to  seek  after  "  perfect  love"  as  the  privilege  of 
believers  in  this  life.  Having  their  own  souls  baptized 
3 


[1825. 

tieir  loss,  but 
id  increased 

rly  meetings 
tario  district, 
orge  Lane. 
Tion  of  coun- ' 
at  district  for 

irith  showers 
ared  in  their 

ion  had  been 

rork  of  God 

ion  of  about 

members  of 

3  a  manifest 
ing  and  con- 
ev.  William 
evers  the  ne- 
the  seeking 
>ner  did  they 
iJpirit  in  their 
ig  the  una- 
ry soon  fifty 
t  seriousness 

there  was  a 
[lis  also  com- 
i,  who  were 
privilege  of 
>ids  baptized 


1825.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  303 

from  on  high,  they  were  fired  with  a  loving  zeal  for  the 
salvation  of  their  neighbors;  and  the  consequence  was, 
that  one  hundred  and  seventy  were  brought  to  the 
knowledge  of  the  truth  and  added  to  the  Church 

In  the  city  of  Albany,  where  Methodism  had  strug- 
gled with  many  difficulties  for  a  long  time,  God  poured 
out  his  Spirit,  and  about  fifty  souls  were  brought  into 
the  fellowship  of  the  Church. 

On  the  Champlain  district,  then  under  the  charge  of 
the  Rev.  Buel  Goodsell,  the  work  of  God  prevailed  very 
generally  among  the  circuits,  and  the  hopes  of  God's 
people  were  greatly  revived  and  their  hearts  strength- 
ened. This  good  work  was  the  result  of  a  number  of 
camp  meetings  which  were  held  in  different  parts  of  the 
district.  These  were  the  means  of  the  conversion  of 
many  sinners,  and  a  general  quickening  among  the 
professors  of  religion. 

New-Haven  district  also,  under  the  superintend  snce 
of  the  Rev.  Samuel  Luckey,  was  favored  with  some 
revivals,  and  the  state  of  religion  was  generally  flou- 
nshmg  through  the  district. 

In  this  part  of  the  country,  as  well  as  in  some  others, 
It  had  been  found  that  we  had  labored  to  httle  purpose 
in  the  cities  and  principal  villages,  for  want  of  con- 
venient houses  of  worship,  and  because  we  had  not  a 
preacher  constantly  among  the  people.     From  these 
defects  m  our  plans  of  procedure,  our  societies  in  New- 
Haven    Middletown,  and  Hartford,  and  many  other 
places,  had  been  but  feeble,  and  often  the  prospects  were 
discouraging.    About  this  time  a  remedy  had  been  pro- 
vided m  some  places,  and  was  providing  in  others,  by 
erecting  churches,  and  stationing  preachers  in  those 
cities  and  viUages  where  the  people  were  able  to  support 

3  * 


304 


A    HISTORJ'    OF   THE 


[1826. 


them.  The  blessed  effects  of  these  movements  were 
soon  felt  and  seen,  though  in  some  instances,  in  build- 
ing churches,  the  people  felt  themselves  compelled,  as 
they  thought,  to  depart  from  our  general  usage,  by  sell- 
ing or  renting  the  slips,  as  they  could  not  otherwise 
either  build  the  houses,  or  induce  the  people  to  attend 
the  preaching—parents  pleading  that  they  wished  to 
seat  their  children  and  members  of  their  household  with 
them  in  places  of  public  worship. 

Whatever  may  be  said  against  this  policy  in  other 
parts  of  our  work,  it  is  certain  that  its  adoption  in  many 
portions  of  the  country  in  the  eastern  and  northern 
states  has  had  a  beneficial  influence  upon  the  interests 
of  our  Church.  By  this  means  the  people  have  been 
able  to  meet  the  expense  of  sustaining  the  worship  of 
God,  and  also  to  secure  permanent  congregations ;  and 
the  preachers  could  more  fully  and  effectually  discharge 
all  the  duties  of  pastors,  in  overseeing  the  temporal  and 
spiritual  affairs  of  the  Church,  such  as  visiting  from 
house  to  house,  attending  upon  the  sick,  burying  the 
dead,  meeting  the  classes,  and  regulating  sabbath 
school,  tract,  and  missionary  societies.  And  who  will 
say  that  these  things  are  not  as  important  to  the  well- 
being  of  the  Church,  or  the  prosperity  of  true  religion, 
as  it  is  "  to  preach  so  many  sermons  ?" 

A  great  and  glorious  work  this  year  prevailed  in  the 
Susquehannah  district,  in  the  bounds  of  the  Genesee 
conference,  under  the  presidency  of  the  Rev.  George 
Peck.  Camp  meetings  were  chiefly  instrumental  in 
kindling  the  sacred  flame  which  spread  among  the  cir- 
cuits and  stations  of  this  region  of  country,  and  many 
sinners  w^ere  happily  converted  to  God,  while  the  holy 
impulse  was  felt  divcivigii  the  churches  generally. 
3 


[1826. 

ments  were 
es,  in  build- 
impelled,  as 
lage,  by  sell- 
3t  otherwise 
)le  to  attend 
y  wished  to 
iiaehold  with 

licy  in  other 
ion  in  many 
nd  northern 
the  interests 
B  have  been 
e  worship  of 
rations;  and 
lily  discharge 
temporal  and 
visiting  from 
burying  the 
ing  sabbath 
ind  who  will 
it  to  the  well- 
true  religion, 

evailed  in  the 
the  Genesee 
Rev.  George 
strumental  in 
mong  the  cir- 
y,  and  many 
r'hile  the  holy 
aerally. 


1825.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  305 

The  Rev  Dan  Barnes,  in  giving  an  account  of  the 
Black  river  district,  in  the  same  conference,  speaks  of  a 
great  work  which  commenced  at  a  camp  meeting  and 
thence  spread  in  various  directions. 

In  the  city  of  Baltimore  the  Rev.  Samuel  Merwin, 
who  had  charge  of  the  church  in  that  place  this  year 
writes,  that  mighty  works  were  wrought  in  the  name 
of  the  Lord  Jesus.  He  says  that  from  fifty  to  one  hun- 
dred and  fifty  were  crying  to  God  for  mercy  in  the  same 
meeting  and  he  presumed  that  from  five  hundred  to 
SIX  hundred  were  made  partakers  of  pardoning  mercy 
during  the  progieti3  of  the  work. 

About  this  time  a  lively  feeling  was  awakened  in  the 
Christian  community  in  behalf  of  seamen,  a  class  of 
men  huherto  almost  entirely  neglected  by  the  church. 
Indeed,  as  early  as  1816,  a  few  benevolent  individuals 
in  the  city  of  New-York  had  directed  their  attention  to 
the  condition  of  this  useful  class  of  men,  and  they  sue 
ceeded  in  forming  a  society  for  promoting  the  gospel 
among  seamen  in  the  port  of  New-York,  consisting  of 
nearly  all  evangelical  denominations,  and  its  operations 
are  conducted  on  the  most  cathohc  principles.     Its  af- 
fairs are  managed  by  a  board  of  directors,  holdinff  a 
corporate  seal  by  an  act  of  the  legislature.    Beinff  pa- 
tron^ed  by  the  Christian  public,  they  succeeded,  in 
I8iy,  in  purchasmg  ground  and  erecting  a  house  of 
worship  m  Roosevelt-street,  near  the  quays  on  the  East 
'iv«r,  rj  lite  convenient  for  the  sailors  to  attend.     At  the 
^i>  licai. on  of  this  house,  in  accordance  with  the  catholic 
pnnciples  on  which  it  was  built,  the  three  sermons 
were  preached  by  a  Protestant  Episcopalian,  a  Dutch 
informed,  and  a  Methodist  Episcopal  minister.     To 
insure  the  staied  ministry  of  the  word,  the  Rev.  Ward 

20  8 


^;l 


1 
\m 

Iff, 


Wriym 


306  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [18:<i5 

Stafford,  a  Presbyterian  minister,  was  first  engaged  to 
take  charge  of  the  congregation,  who  was  occasionally 
assisted  by  ministdrs  of  other  denominations. 

After  he  left,  the  directors  obtained  a  gratuitous  sup- 
ply by  inviting  ministers  of  vavious  denominations,  so 
as  to  keep  up,  as  far  as  possible,  the  anti-sectarian  cha- 
racter of  the  enterprise,  that  all  might  feel  an  interest  in 
its  promotion.  It  was  soon  found,  however,  that  a  con- 
gregation could  not  be  collected  and  retained  witliout 
the  labors  of  a  stated  minister.  Accordingly,  m  1821, 
they  employed  the  Rev.  Henry  Chase,  at  that  time  a 
local  preacher,  and  an  assistant  teacher  in  the  Wesleyan 
seminary  in  the  city  of  New- York,  to  take  charge  of  a 
weekly  prayer  meeting  in  the  church,  to  distribute 
tracts  among  seamen,  to  visit  their  families,  and  to  per- 
form such  pastoral  duties  as  might  not  interfere  with 
his  engagements  with  the  seminary.  Being  quite  suc- 
cessful in  these  efforts,  at  the  request  of  the  directors, 
and  in  accordance  with  the  advice  of  his  brethren  in 
the  ministry  in  the  city  of  New-York,  Mr.  Chase  re- 
signed his  place  as  teacher  in  the  Wesleyan  seminary, 
and  on  the  first  of  January,  1823,  devoted  himself  en- 
tirely to  the  service  of  seamen. 

In  1825  brother  Chase  was  admitted  on  trial  in  the 
New- York  conference,  and,  at  the  request  of  the  direct- 
ors of  the  seamen's  society,  was  stationed  in  the  Mari 
ner's  church,  where,  with  the  exception  of  eighteen 
months,  when  they  had  a  minister  of  another  denomi- 
nation, he  has  continued  ever  since.  In  1828,  perceiv- 
ing that  great  good  resulted  to  seamen  from  his  labors, 
and  of  those  similarly  employed  in  other  places,  and 
feeling  the  inconvenience  of  those  changes  which  ordi- 


[1825 

st  engaged  to 
s  occasionally 
ns. 

ratuitous  sup- 
iminations,  so 
sectarian  cha- 
an  interest  in 
er,  that  a  con- 
Eiined  without 
igly,  m  1821, 
t  that  time  a 
the  Wesleyan 
:e  charge  of  a 
to  distribute 
Bs,  and  to  per- 
interfere  with 
ing  quite  suc- 
the  directors, 
is  brethren  in 
Mr.  Chase  re- 
ran seminary, 
d  himself  en- 

)n  trial  in  the 
t  of  the  direct- 
[  in  the  Mari 
n  of  eighteen 
other  denomi- 
1828,  pcrceiv- 
•om  his  labors, 
jr  places,  and 
es  which  ordi- 


1825.]  METHODIST  EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  307 

made  an  exception  in  favor  of  those  preachers  who 
were  laboring  for  the  spiritual  good  of  seamen,  allowing 
the  bishop  to  continue  them  in  the  same  station  for  any 
length  of  tune.     Mr.  Chase  has  accordingly  been  con- 
tinued m  the  Mariner's  church  to  the  present  time,  as  a 
member  and  elder  in  the  New-York  conference,  and 
his  ministrations  have  been  greatly  blessed.     Hundreds 
ot  seamen  have  been  soundly  converted  to  God,  and 
the  church  IS  generally  filled  with  orderly  and  attentive 
hearers  every  sat'.ath,  and  regular  prayer  meetings  are 
held  every  week.     There  is,  indeed,  a  great  improve- 
ment m  the  condition  and  general  conduct  of  this  use- 
ful and  suffering  class  of  men. 
As  the  Mariner's  church  is  supported  by  the  several 
enommalions  of  Christians,  no  church  organization 
has  taken  place  there,  but  those  who  were  brought  (o 
the  knowledge  of  the  truth  were  at  liberty  to  unite  M'ith 
whatever  church  they  pleased ;  but  I  believe  most  of 
them  have  united  with  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church- 
and  then-  numbers  have  become  so  considerable,  that 
they  have  recently  organized  themselves  into  a  cluirch 
under  the  name  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Seamen's 
Church  in  the  city  of  New-York,  have  elected  trustees, 
and  are  now  (1840)  making  preparations  to  erect  a 
house  of  worship  for  their  accommodation  and  that  of 
their  seafaring  brethren. 

Similar  efforts  have  been  made  in  other  places,  and 
With  equal  success,  which  will  be  noticed  under  their 
appropriate  dates. 

On  the  whole,  it  would  appear,  notwithstanding  some 
por  ions  of  our  Church  were  agitated  with  discussions 
on  the  different  modes  of  church  ffovernment.  that  n.n« 
Fiiiy  generally  attended  the  labors  of  God's  servants, 


308 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1825. 


and  that  the  spirit  of  revival  pervaded  the  ranks  of  our 
Israel.  Some  other  churches  also  caught  the  flame  in 
many  places,  and  were  therefore  making  delightful 
progress  in  the  advancement  of  true  religion. 

Fifty-eight  preachers  were  located  this  year,  fifty-five 
returned  supernumerary,  and  eighty-three  superannu- 
ated ;  fourteen  had  died,  and  three  had  been  expelled. 

Among  the  dead  was  William  Brauchamp,  whose 
eminent  talents  fitted  him  for  great  usefulness  in  the 
church  of  God.  And  while  the  civil  historian  enriches 
his  pages  with  memoirs  of  statesmen,  poets,  orators, 
philosophers,  and  men  of  military  renown  who  have 
benefited  their  country,  we  may  be  allowed  to  preserve 
a  record  of  those  eminent  ministers  of  the  sanctuary 
who,  by  the  depth  and  ardor  of  their  piety,  their  genius, 
and  their  eloquence  in  the  pulpit,  have  contributed  to 
advance  the  best  interests  of  their  feilow-men.  The 
characters  of  such  men  are  a  precious  legacy  which 
they  have  bequeathed  to  the  Church,  more  valuable, 
indeed,  than  silver  and  gold. 

WiUiam  Beauchamp  was  born  in  Kent  county,  De- 
laware state,  on  the  26th  day  of  April,  1772.  He  was 
a  descendant  of  a  pious  Methodist  preacher,  who,  about 
the  year  1788,  removed  to  the  west  and  settled  on  the 
Monongahela  river,  and  from  thence,  in  about  eight 
years,  on  the  Little  Kenhawa  river.  Wood  county,  Va. 
Here,  in  conjunction  with  Mr.  Rees  Wolf,  another  Me- 
thodist preacher,  he  was  instrumental  in  establishing 
some  Methodist  societies.  William  was  a  subject  of 
relitjious  impressions  when  quite  a  youth,  and  at  about 
sixteen  years  of  age  he  was  made  a  partaker  of  justify- 
ing faith,  and   became  a  member  of  the  Methodist 

•f     •     I   /-il U 

HipiBCOpiU  V^iiUivii. 

3 


1825.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


309 


In  1794  he  joined  the  traveling  ministry,  and  after 
discharging  the  duties  of  an  itinerant  preacher  with 
great  acceptance  and  usefulness  west  of  the  Alleghany 
mountains  for  three  years,  he  was  stationed,  in  1797,  in 
the  city  of  New- York,  and  a  few  of  the  people  here 
still  remember  the  able  manner  in  which  he  fulfilled 
the  duties  of  his  station.  In  1799  he  was  stationed  in 
Provincetown,  in  Massachusetts,  and  from  thence  he 
was  removed,  in  1800,  to  the  island  of  Nantucket. 

In  this  place  Methodism  was  scarcely  known  at  that 
time.  A  local  preacher  by  the  name  of  Cannon  had 
preached  there  with  some  success,  and  hence  the  con- 
ference was  requested  to  send  them  a  regular  preacher, 
and  Mr.  Beauchamp  was  accordingly  sent.  Here  his 
piety  and  talents  soon  gained  him  the  confidence  of  the 
people,  and  he  was  instrumental  in  raising  a  society  of 
eighty  members,  and  before  he  left  the  place  a  large 
and  commodious  house  of  worship  was  erected.  This 
laid  the  foundation  of  Methodism  in  the  island  of  Nan- 
tucket, which  has  continued  to  enlarge  its  dimensions 
from  time  to  time,  so  much  so  that  the  New-England 
conference  has  held  two  of  its  sessions  in  that  place,  the 
fust  in  1820,  and  the  second  in  1836. 

Unhappily  for  the  Church,  whose  interests  he  served, 
ill  1801  Mr.  Beauchamp  located.  In  the  same  year  he 
was  united  in  matrimony  to  Mrs.  Frances  Russell, 
the  widow  of  Mr.  A.  Russell,  who  had  been  lost  at 
sea. 

Without  stopping  to  notice  the  intervening  periods  of 
his  life,  it  will  bo  sufficient  for  the  purposes  of  this  short 
memoir  to  remark,  that  he  remained  in  a  located  rela- 
tion to  the  Church  until  1822,  when  he  re-entered  the 
traveling  connection,  and  continued  therein  until  his 


jJlO  A    HISTORY  OF    THE  [1825. 

death,  which  happened  on  the  seventh  day  of  October, 
1824,  in  the  fifty-third  year  of  his  age. 

His  piety  was  unquestionable,  and  his  talents  as  a 
minister  of  Jesus  Christ,  as  a  writer,  and  as  a  man  of 
business,  were  of  the  first  order ;  and,  had  he  continued 
in  the  itinerant  ministry,  no  doubt  he  would  have  arisen 
to  the  first  distinction  in  the  Church.  During  his  io 
cated  relation  he  removed  i.>  the  west,  and  settled  first 
in  his  former  place  of  residence,  on  the  Little  Kenhawa, 
and  then,  in  1816,  in  Chilicothe,  and  finally  he  took 
up  his  residence  at  Mount  Carmel,  Illinois.  Of  this 
latter  place,  he,  in  conjunction  with  his  friend,  Thomas 
S.  Hinde,  was  the  founder.  In  all  the  places  where  he 
resided  he  obtained  the  confidence,  respect,  and  affec- 
tion of  the  people,  and  was  eminently  useful  as  a  minis- 
ter of  Jesus  Christ,  as  well  as  a  citizen  among  his 
neighbors.  Indeed,  such  is  said  to  have  been  the  con- 
fidence of  his  neighbors  in  his  wisdom  and  integrity, 
that  often  civil  suits  were  withdrawn  from  courts  of 
justice  and  submitted  to  his  arbitrement.  He  also  in- 
fused into  the  minds  of  the  youth  within  the  circle  of 
his  acquaintance  a  taste  for  literary  acquirements,  both 
by  example  and  precept. 

During  this  same  period  of  his  hfe  he  appeared  before 
the  public  as  a  writer,  and  in  1811  he  published  an 
"  Essay  on  the  Truth  of  the  Christian  Religion,"  which 
is  said,  by  those  who  are  capable  of  judging  of  its  cha- 
racter, to  be  a  work  of  sterling  merit.  In  1816,  while 
residing  at  Chilicothe,  he  became  the  editor  of  a  monthly 
periodical,  called  "The  Western  Christian  Monitor," 
for  which  he  furnished  some  valuable  pieces,  written 
with  spirit  and  much  critical  acumen.     At  this  time  we 

\\aA  nn  norinA'tna]   nuhWrat'inn  •    ant\    fppMncr.  \n  COmmOll 


L1825. 
T  of  October, 

talents  as  a 
as  a  man  of 
he  continued 
I  have  arisen 
jring  his  io- 
I  settled  first 
le  Kenhawa, 
lally  he  took 
ois.  Of  this 
md,  Thomas 
Lces  where  he 
t,  and  affec- 
il  as  a  minis- 
among  his 
3een  the  con- 
,nd  integrity, 
3m  courts  of 
He  also  in- 
the  circle  of 
:ements,  both 

ipeared  before 
published  an 
igion,"  which 
fig  of  its  cha- 
I  1816,  while 
of  a  monthly 
an  Monitor," 
)ieces,  written 
t  this  time  we 
T.  in  common 


1825.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL  CHURCH. 


311 


with  many  others,  the  want  of  such  a  medium  of 
instruction,  he  was  led,  aided  by  some  of  his  literary 
friends  in  the  west,  to  undertake  this  work.  For  the 
short  time  it  existed  its  circulation  was  considerable,  and 
its  pages  were  enriched  with  articles,  both  original  and 
selected,  which  did  honor  to  the  head  and  heart  of  its 
editor.  Among  others  who  contributed  articles  for  the 
Western  Christian  Monitor  was  Thomas  S.  Hinde, 
better  known  under  the  signature  of  "  Theophilus  Ar- 
minius,"  whose  sketches  of  western  Methodism  after- 
ward enriched  the  pages  of  the  Methodist  Magazine, 
and  who  liecame  the  biographer  of  his  deceased  friend, 
the  Rev.  William  Beauchamp.  The  work,  however, 
continued  in  existence  only  one  year,  but  it  contained 
evidence  of  the  piety,  industry,  and  talent  of  its  editor. 

After  the  commencement  of  the  Methodist  Magazme 
Mr.  Beauchamp  became  an  occasional  contributor  to 
•Jiat  work,  and  all  his  pieces  bear  the  stamp  of  genius, 
of  an  original  thinker,  and  an  accurate  writer. 

Having  returned  to  the  ranks  of  the  itinerancy,  he 
again  entered  upon  his  work  with  all  that  ardor,  and 
in  the  display  of  those  ministerial  qualifications,  by 
which  he  had  been  before  distinguished.  In  the  second 
year  he  was  appointed  a  presiding  elder  of  the  Indiana 
district.  While  traveling  this  district  he  was  seized 
with  a  complaint  with  which  he  had  before  been  visited, 
namely,  an  affection  of  the  liver.  He  lingered  under 
the  influence  of  this  corroding  disease  for  about  six 
weeks,  during  which  time  he  exhibited  the  patience, 
faith,  and  love  of  the  Christian,  and  died  in  the  full 
hope  of  eternal  life. 

Mr.  Beauchamp  was  a  close,  a  diligent,  and  a  suc- 


Ce»flfll1     atllHont     tl\nitnU 

■    ■    '   ■    'l* 


iii^    jruubix    uc    xvaa  ucpiiVCU 

3 


312 


A    HISTORY    or    THE 


il- 


1$'/ 


[1825. 


of  the  customary  advantages  of  education.  While  a 
lad  his  father  removed  to  the  Monongahela,  where 
schools  were  not  to  be  found.  But  as  he  had  contracted 
a  taste  for  books  before  his  removal,  he  surmounted  the 
difficulties  of  his  situation,  procured  torch-hghts  as  a 
substitute  for  candles  or  lamps,  and  when  the  labors  of 
the  day  were  finished,  and  the  family  retired  to  rest, 
young  Beauchamp  would  prostrate  himself  upon  the 
floor,  and  examine  his  books  by  the  light  of  his  torch. 
In  this  way  he  treasured  up  a  stock  of  useful  informa- 
tion, of  which  he  availed  himself  in  after  life.  He  be- 
came thoroughly  acquainted  with  the  principles  of  hU 
vernacular  language,  studied  the  Latin  and  Greek,  and 
in  his  riper  years  mastered  the  Hebrew  tongue.  In  ad- 
dition to  these  acquirements,  he  cultivated  an  acquaint- 
ance with  some  of  the  sciences,  through  the  medium  of 
the  most  accomplished  authors.  With  this  taste  for 
literature  and  science,  it  seems  stiange  that  he  should 
have  neglected  the  study  of  history,  £is  it  is  stated  he 
did,  this  being  of  all  others  the  most  important  to  store 
the  mind  with  useful  knowledge,  and  especially  for  the 
minister  of  the  gospel. 

These  quaUfications,  superadded  to  the  depth  and 
uniformity  of  his  piety,  his  love  of  the  Bible,  and  his 
acquaintance  with  its  doctrines  and  precepts,  fitted  him 
in  an  eminent  degree  for  usefulness  in  the  Church; 
and  had  he  devoted  himself  exclusively  to  the  work  of 
the  gospel  ministry,  as  before  said,  he  might  have  risen 
to  one  of  its  highest  offices :  as  it  was,  after  his  return 
to  the  itinerancy,  at  the  General  Conference  of  1824, 
which  he  attended  as  a  delegate  from  the  Missouri  con- 
ference, he  was  a  candidate  for  the  episcop?icy,  and 
packed  only  two  votes  rnore  to  insure  his  election. 


o 


[1825. 

1.  While  a 
,hela,  where 
id  contracted 
mouQted  the 
i-lights  as  a 
the  labors  of 
tired  to  rest, 
3lf  upon  the 
of  his  torch, 
jful  informa- 
life.  He  be- 
iciples  of  hkj 
i  Greek,  and 
Tue.  In  ad- 
an  acquaint- 
3  medium  of 
his  taste  for 
It  he  should 
is  stated  he 
rtant  to  store 
cially  for  the 

B  depth  and 
ible,  and  his 
ts,  fitted  him 
the  Church; 
( the  work  of 
It  have  risen 
jr  his  return 
ace  of  1824, 
Missouri  con- 
icop?icy,  and 
ection. 


1825.] 


METHODTST    EPISCOPAL  CHURCH. 


313 


His  style  of  preaching  was  remarkable  for  its  chastity, 
plainness,  and  nervousness.     No  redundancy  of  words 
encumbered  his  sentences— no  pomposity  of  style  swelled 
his  periods— nor  did  there  appear  any  effort  to  produce 
a  momentary  effect  for  the  empty  purpose  of  gaining 
the  shout  of  applause.    His  attitude  in  the  pulpit  was 
solemn,  his  gestures  easy  and  graceful,  his  arguments 
sound  and  conclusive,  and  his  positions  were  all  fortified 
by  apposite  appeals  to  the  sacred  Scripture.      And 
though  he  made  no  artificial  efforts  at  oratorical  display, 
yet  he  exhibited  the  true  eloquence  of  a  gospel  minister,' 
by  making  his  language  reflect  clearly  the  perceptions 
of  his  mind,  by  pouring  the  truths  of  Christianity  upon 
his  audience  in  the  purest  strains  of  a  neat  and  ener- 
getic diction,  and  by  enforcing  the  whole  by  the  sin- 
cerity and  earnestness  of  his  manner.    His  delivery 
wail  deliberate,  not  loud  and  boisterous,  but  clear  and 
distinct,  leaving  an  impression  upon  the  mind  of  the 
hearer  that  truth  and  duty  were  the  object  of  his  pursuit. 
His  biographer  relates  the  foUowing  incident  in  proof 
of  the  power  and  conclusiveness  of  his  arguments,  when 
engaged  in  establishing  a  controverted  point.     His  an- 
tagonist, who  was  listening  attentively  to  the  discourse, 
finding  the  arguments  too  powerful  for  him  to  answer' 
rose,  apparently  with  an  mtention  to  leave  the  house' 
but  was  so  overcome  by  the  force  of  truth,  and  his 
whole  frame  so  agitated,  that,  finding  himself  stagger- 
ing, he  caught  hold  of  the  railing,  reeled,  and  dropped 
upon  his  seat,  and  there  remained,  overwhelmed  and 
confounded,  until  the  sermon  was  ended ;  he  then  si- 
lently withdrew,  and  left  Mr.  Beauchamp  master  of  the 
field. 

But  he  rests  fi-om  his  labors.     And  whatever  of 

3 


314 


A    HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1825. 


h  J 


r; 


W' 


u  ■ 


human  infirmities  he  may  have  exhibited,  they  were 
lost  sight  of  amid  the  many  excellences  which  adorned 
his  character,  and  may  therefore  be  entombed  beneath 
the  same  turf  which  hides  his  mortal  remains  in  Paoii, 
until  the  last  trumpet  shall  awake  his  sleeping  dust  to 
life  and  immortality.  Acknowledging  himself  indebted 
to  divine  grace  for  present  peace  and  future  salvation, 
he  hung  upon  the  promises  of  the  gospel  for  support 
and  comfort,  and  finally  resigned  up  his  seal  to  God  in 
the  full  hope  of  eternal  hfe. 

Another  of  the  worthies  who  exchanged  the  itinerant 
race  for  the  crown  of  reward  was  William  Ross,  of 
the  New- York  conference.  Though  his  race  was  com- 
paratively short— for  he  died  in  the  thirty-third  year  of 
ins  age — his  course  was  steady,  and  his  end  glorious. 

He  was  a  native  of  Tyringham,  Mass.,  and  was 
born  February  10,  1792.  In  the  seventeenth  year  of 
his  age  he  was  made  a  partaker  of  the  justifying  grace 
of  God,  became  a  member  o^  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  and,  in  his  twentieth  year,  entered  the  ranks 
of  the  itinerancy.  In  the  early  periods  of  his  ministry 
he  labored  chiefly  in  the  state  of  Vermont,  where,  in 
consequence  of  the  badness  of  the  roads  and  coarseness 
of  the  fare,  he  sometimes  suffered  many  privations, 
which  gave  him  an  opportunity  of  trying  the  strength 
of  his  resolutions,  of  his  faith  in  Christ,  his  love  to  God 
and  the  soul^  of  men.  The  faithfulness  with  which  he 
discharged  his  duties  in  this  nigged  field  of  labor  gave 
him  favor  in  the  eyes  of  the  people,  and  commended 
him  to  the  approbation  of  his  brethren  in  the  ministry. 

After  traveling  various  circuits,  in  which  he  acquitted 
himself  as  an  able  minister  of  the  New  Testament,  in 
1821  he  was  stationed  in  the  city  of  New- York,  where 
3 


[1825. 

1,  they  were 
bich  adorned 
ibed  beneath 
linH  in  Paoli, 
ping  dust  to 
iself  indebted 
ire  salvation, 
I  for  support 
ml  to  God  in 

the  itinerant 
vm  Ross,  of 
ace  was  corn- 
third  year  of 
id  glorious. 
3s.,  and  was 
lenth  year  of 
Jtifying  grace 
list  Episcopal 
ed  the  ranks 

his  ministry 
nt,  where,  in 
nd  coarseness 
ly  privations, 
the  strength 
s  love  to  God 
*rith  which  he 
of  labor  gave 

commended 
the  ministry. 
1  he  acquitted 
^estament,  in 
-York,  where 


1825] 


M£TH0DIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


315 


he  labored  two  years  with  great  acceptance.  For  the 
last  two  years  of  his  ministry  he  was  stationed  in 
Brooklyn,  Long  Island,  where  he  ended  his  life  and 
labors  in  the  full  triumph  of  faith  and  hope.  His  last 
hours,  indeed,  were  a  brilliant  comment  upon  the  doc- 
trines he  had  preached,  and  tended  not  a  little  tc 
strengthen  our  faith  in  the  divinity  of  their  origin,  ana 
the  efficacy  of  their  application  to  the  heart  and  con- 
science. 

William  Ross  is  not  exhibited  as  a  ffreat  man,  nor 
yet  as  a  learned  man.  He  was  neither  the  one  nor 
the  other,  in  the  common  acceptation  of  these  terms. 
But  he  was  a  good  man,  a  good  preacher,  and  a  good 
husband,  father,  and  friend,  and  he  was  thus  good  be- 
cause the  grace  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus  had  made  him 
such.  In  one  sense,  indeed,  he  was  great.  He  had  a 
clear  perception  of  the  plan  of  redemption  by  Christ  Je- 
sus, well  understood  the  sacred  Scriptures,  was  indefati- 
gable in  his  labors,  was  an  eloquent  and  successful 
preacher  of  righteousness,  and  exemplified  in  his  own 
life  those  pure  precepts  of  Christianity  which  he  recom- 
mended to  others. 

The  high  estimatiori  in  which  he  was  held  by  his 
brethren,  and  by  i  "''  --tian  com.nunity  generally, 
may  be  inferred  from  ;g  frequently  called,  in  the 

course  of  his  ministratio;  .  =;w-York  and  Brooklyn, 
to  plead  the  cause  of  Bible,  missionary,  Sunday  school, 
and  tract  societies.  Here,  indeed,  he  sometimes  spoke 
with  a  force  and  eloquence  which  astonished  and  de- 
lighted his  friends,  while  it  confounded  the  enemies  of 
these  benevolent  exertions  for  the  salvation  of  the  world. 

In  the  pulpit  there  was  a  peculiar  solemnity  in  his 
manner,  and  dignity  of  expression— the  grave,  distinct, 

3 


1"^" 


I  it 


316  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1825. 

flonoroHs  intonations  of  his  voice  giving  force  and  im« 
pitiSHivencHK  to  the  Hcntiments  he  uttered,  anu  reminded 
the  hearer  that  lie  wuh  listening  to  a  messenger  who 
felt  the  weight  and  importance  of  his  message.  Being 
a  decided  friend  to  all  our  benevolent  institutions,  and 
particularly  to  the  missionary  and  education  causes,  lie 
often  advocated  them  in  public,  and  gave  them  the 
weight  of  his  influence  in  his  more  private  intercourse 
in  the  circles  in  which  he  moved.  Some  of  his  satirical 
thrusta^ — for  he  sometimes  used  this  dangerous  weapon 
to  put  error  and  folly  to  the  blush — at  ignorance  and 
covetousness,  cut  with  the  keener  edge  because  of  the 
strength  and  appropriateness  with  which  they  were 
sent  by  his  skilful  hp.nd.  Nor  was  ho  deterred  from 
exposing  these  common  peats  of  human  society  merely 
because  the  wounds  which  he  inflicted  upon  their  vota- 
ries made  them  writhe  and  groan  under  the  sensations 
of  paiii  whicli  they  frequently  suffered. 

He  was  equally  skilful  and  much  more  delighted  in 
the  pleasing  task  of  portraying  before  his  audience  the 
glowing  beauties  of  charity,  the  divine  excellences  of 
the  other  Christian  graces,  and  the  attractive  charms 
with  which  Christianity  invested  him  who  clothed  him- 
self with  its  rich  and  lovely  livery.  When,  therefore, 
William  Rosa  "  occupied  that  holy  place,  the  pulpit,"  no 
one  was  disgusted  with  a  repetition  of  cant  and  un- 
meaning— unmeaning,  I  mean,  to  him  who  utters  them 
— phrases,  but  he  Ustened  to  the  solemn  realities  of  eter- 
nity, which  fell  from  the  speaker's  lips  in  accents  of  deep 
feeling,  in  language  at  or  ce  chaste,  plain,  and  intelligi- 
ble, uttered  in  a  tone  of  voice  which  bespoke  a  soul  filled 
with  the  subject  on  which  he  was  discoursing. 

I  have  made  this  short  record  as  due  to  one  who,  had 


1825.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  317 

he  lived  and  prospered  in  his  race  as  he  began  and 
ended  it,  would  doubtless  have  ranked  among  the  first 
ministers  of  our  Church.     There  was,  indeed,  an  amia- 
bility  of  disposition  and  courteousness  of  demeanor  about 
the  movements  of  William  Ross  which  drew  forth  the 
love  of  those  who  knew  him,  and  at  the  same  time  a 
dignity  of  deportment  which  commanded  their  respect. 
There  is  one  fact  respecting  him,  which  happened 
near  the  close  of  his  life,  that  goes  most  forcibly  to  set 
0(1  the  beauty  and  strength  of  his  character.     When  it 
was  ascertained  by  the  official  members  in  the  city  of 
Brooklyn  that  he  was  to  be  stationed  among  them,  some 
of  them,  perhaps  the  majority,  remonstrated  against  the 
appointment,  so  strongly  indeed  that  the  bishop  hesi- 
tated about  insisting  upon  making  it.    Among  others 
who  may  have  been  consulted,  the  writer's  opinion  was 
asked.     The  reply  was,  "  Send  him ;  for  such  is  the 
weight  of  his  character,  the  urbanity  and  meekness  of 
his  manners,  as  well  as  his  talents  as  a  preacher,  that 
he  will  soon  overcome  all  opposition,  and  prove  himself 
worthy  of  the  affection  and  confidence  of  the  people;"— 
and  then  added,  «  A  people  who  will  reject  such  a  man 
as  William  Ross  are  unworthy  of  any  preacher."    This 
was  said  from  an  intimate  acquaintance  with  the  man, 
and  likewise  from  a  knowledge  that  the  objections  to 
him  originated  from  a  prejudice  which  had  no  founda- 
tion in  truth  and  reality. 

He  was  sent.  It  was  not  three  months  before  every 
objection  against  him  was  removed,  the  work  of  God 
prospered,  the  church  was  filled  with  hearers,  and  never 
was  a  man  more  highly  esteemed  or  aflfectionately  loved 
than  brother  Ross  was  by  the  people  of  Brooklyn.  So 
highly  did  they  estimate  his  labors  among  them,  that, 

8 


1 


1^  > 


318 


A  HISTORY   or   THE 


[1826. 

immediately  after  his  death,  the  society  contributed 
about  twelve  hundred  dollars  for  the  support  of  his 
widow  and  orphan  children. 

Of  the  other  twelve  who  had  ended  their  labors  dur- 
ing the  past  year,  honorable  mention  is  made  of  their 
fidelity  in  the  cause  of  God  and  of  their  peaceful  death. 

Number  of  Church  members. 

Whites.  Colored.  Total.         Preachers. 

This  year      298,658       49,537       348,195     1,314 
Last  year      280,427       48,096       328,523     1,272 

Increase  1i;23i  "1,441  19,672  42 
1826.  The  aboriginal  missions  which  had  been 
commenced  and  prosecuted  under  such  favorable  au- 
spices coiainued  to  prosper,  and  to  promise  the  most 
happy  results.  There  was,  however,  no  other  aborigi- 
nal mission  opened  this  year,  and  nothing  worthy  of 
special  notice  which  happened  among  those  which  had 
been  begun,  except  that  their  continued  prosperity  still 
attracted  the  attention  of  the  Church,  and  led  to  those 
plans  for  the  evangelization  of  other  tribes  which  will 
be  noticed  hereafter. 

The  great  change  which  had  been  wrought  among 
the  Mississauga  Indians,  heretofore  related,  was  followed 
by  the  most  blessed  results  on  other  fragments  of  the 
same  tribe.  An  additional  number  of  twenty-two,  who 
professed  faith  in  Christ,  were  baptized  this  year  and 
formed  into  a  class  in  Bellville,  in  Upper  Canada.  They 
were  placed  under  the  care  of  two  of  their  principal 
men,  Capuiin  William  Beaver  and  John  Sunday,  who 
had  before  given  evidence  of  a  sound  conversion,  and 
who  now  acted  as  class  leaders.  Nothing  could  furnish 
a  more  convincing  evidence  of  the  thorough  change 
3 


[1826. 

contributed 
port  of  his 

labors  dur- 
ide  of  their 
;eful  death. 

Preachers. 

5     1,314 
J     1,272 

2    "~42 

had  been 
vorable  au- 
le  the  most 
her  aborigi- 

worthy  of 

which  had 
Dsperity  still 
led  to  those 

which  will 

[ght  among 
/as  followed 
lents  of  the 
ty-two,  who 
is  year  and 
lada.  They 
3ir  principal 
unday,  who 
version,  and 
ould  furnish 
iigh  change 


1826.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


319 


which  had  been  effected  in  the  hearts  of  tnese  people, 
than  was  evinced  by  their  forsaking  entirely  their  hea- 
thenish habits,  and  banishing  from  among  them  the  use 
of  all  intoxicating  liquors,  becoming  thereby  sober  and 
industrious.  Infidelity  itself  was  constrained  to  bow 
before  the  majesty  of  truth,  and  to  confess,  however  re- 
luctantly, that  nothing  short  of  divine  power  could  pro- 
duce a  reformation  so  thorough  and  permanent. 

Some  new  missions  were  commenced  this  year,  em- 
bracing parts  of  Florida  and  Alabama,  called    the 
Holme's  Valley  and  Pea  river  missions,  and  were  put 
under  the  charge  of  the  presiding  elder  of  the  Talla- 
hassee district,  the  Rev.  George  Evans.    These  coun- 
tries were  but  thinly  populated,  the  settlements  some- 
times being  from  twenty  to  forty  miles  distant  from  each 
other,  separated  by  a  wilderness.     On  this  account  it 
was  difficult  to  collect  congregations,  or  to  pass  from 
one  settlement  to  another ;  but,  notwithstanding-  these 
discouiaging  circumstances,  the  missionaries  succeeded 
in  their  evangelical  efforts  in  forming  societies,  so  that, 
in  1827,  there  were  returned  on  the  Holme's  Valley 
mission  one  hundred  and  two  white  and  thirty-five 
colored  members,  and  on  Pea  river  one  hundred  and 
four  white  and  twenty-one  colored ;  and  the  good  work 
thus  begun  has  steadily  gone  forward  from  that  time  to 
this,  so  that  Tallahassee  has  since  become  the  seat  of 
the  Alabama  conference. 

The  Rev.  S.  Belton  was  sent  to  form  a  circuit  in  the 
newly  settled  townships  between  the  Mississepa  and 
Aitawa  rivers,  in  Upper  Canada,  places  which  had 
been  seldom  if  ever  visited  by  any  minister  of  the  gos- 
pel. The  settlements  had  been  formed  chiefly  by  emi- 
grants from  Ireland,  who  were  in  very  moderate  circum 

3 


320 


A    HISTOHi     OF    THE 


[182G 


Stances,  and  therefore  u;iable  to  do  much  for  the  support 
of  religious  institutions.  They  were,  however,  thank- 
ful for  the  care  thus  manifested  for  their  spiritual  wel- 
fare,  generally  listened  with  attention  to  the  word  of 
hfe,  and  did  what  they  could  to  make  the  missionary 
comfortable.  That  the  word  took  effect  is  manifest 
from  the  fact  that  the  next  year  there  were  returned  on 
the  Minutes  two  hundred  and  seven  members,  and  the 
work  has  continued  to  prosper,  under  the  labors  of 
God's  servants,  from  that  to  the  present  time. 

There  were  several  refreshing  revivals  of  religion 
this  year  in  some  of  the  older  circuits,  more  particularly 
in  the  south  and  west,  where  the  principal  increase  of 
members  was  found.     These  revivals  were  accompa- 
nied by  the  same  evidence  of  divine  power  and  grace 
which  had  attended  those  heretofore  related,  and  gave 
to  the  friends  of  religion  irrefutable  arguments  in  their 
favor.     At  a  camp  meeting  held  on  Hanover  circuit,  in 
Virginia,  there  were  not  less  than  one  hundred  and 
twenty  souls  who  professed  to  find  the  pearl  of  great 
price,  and  the  good  work  spread  with  such  rapidity  that 
upward  of  three  hundred  were  brought  to  God  on  this 
circuit.    On  the  Bottetourt  circuit  similar  resuUs  followed 
two  camp  meetings  which  were  held  there  this  year. 
In  Anne  Arundel  county,  Maryland,  there  were  mighty 
displays  of  the  power  of  God.     The  work  commenced 
at  a  camp  meeting  held  at  a  place  called  Rattlesnake 
Springs.     It  was  liolieved  that  not  less  than  two  hun- 
dred and  fifty  persons  were  brought  from  darkness  to 
light,  and  several  professed  to  be  filled  with  "perfect 
love,"  while  many  departed  from  the  place  under  deep 
conviction  for  sin,  and  groaning  for  redemption  in  the 


1.1 J  _r  il —  T  «-^u 


[182G 

ir  the  support 
srever,  thank- 
spiritual  weU 
the  word  of 
le  missionary 
L  is  manifest 
e  returned  on 
bers,  and  the 
the  labors  of 
me. 

Is  of  religion 
e  particularly 
il  increase  of 
ere  accompa- 
ver  and  grace 
Led,  and  gave 
nents  in  their 
)ver  circuit,  in 
hundred  and 
pearl  of  great 
1  rapidity  that 
0  God  on  this 
esuUs  followed 
lere  this  year. 
e  were  mighty 
k  commenced 
d  Rattlesnake 
than  two  hun- 
n  darkness  to 
with  "perfect 
.ce  under  deep 
emption  in  the 


1826.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL  CHURCH.  ?21 

Though  these  and  other  instances  of  revival  were 
witnessed  during  the  year,  yet  the  general  increase  of 
Church  members  was  not  so  great  as  the  year  before. 

The  New-England  conference  had  succeeded  in  esta- 
blishing an  academy  within  its  bounds,  for  the  educa- 
tion of  youth  of  both  sexes,  in  Wilbraham,  Massachu- 
setts, and  the  one  at  Newmarket  was  merged  in  this. 
It  was  this  year  put  under  the  charge  of  the  Rev.  Wil- 
bur Fisk,  by  whose  pious  and  judicious  management  it 
greatly  prospered,  and  was  soon  filled  with  students, 
and  has  been  instrumental  in  shedding  the  lights  of 
literature  and  religion  on  the  rising  generation.  Here 
young  gentlemen  are  taught  all  those  branches  of  lite- 
rature preparatory  (o  an  entrance  into  college,  or  upon 
the  active  business  of  life,  at  the  same  time  that  the 
principles  of  the  gospel  are  faithfully  inculcated ;  and 
the  institution  has  been  frequently  favored  with  gracious 
outpourings  of  the  Spirit,  resulting  in  the  conversion  of 
many  of  the  students. 

The  Pittsburgh  conference  made  an  attempt  to  esta- 
blish a  collegiate  institution  within  its  bounds,  called 
Madison  College,  and  the  Rev.  Henry  B.  Bascom  was 
appointed  its  president.  It  was  located  in  Uniontown, 
Fuyette  county,  in  the  state  of  Pennsylvania.  It  went 
into  operation  under  favorable  auspices,  and  was  incor- 
porated, in  1827,  by  the  legislature  of  the  state.  It  did 
not,  however,  long  continue.  Its  endowment  was  small, 
and  the  number  of  students  was  by  no  means  adequate 
to  ts  support.  Hence,  though  blessed  with  an  able 
faculty,  its  dissolution  affords  another  evidence  of  the 
impracticability  of  sustaining  collegiate  institutions  with- 
wt  ample  endowments.     How  else  can  this  be  done  ? 

I  he  Dricf*  nf  t  nit  inn   !ia  nA/<A^an-:i.. 1 1-   a\.      • 

'         — " "^^~~^iii^  auiuv*,  ill  ine  vanoue 

21  I 


323 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


\li 


L1826. 

literary  institutions  in  our  country,  that  an  attempt  to 
raise  it  sufficiently  high  to  meet  the  expense  of  tuition 
and  other  incidental  expenses  would  be  to  debar  all 
students  from  an  entrance  into  their  inclosures ;  and  it 
is  equally  impossible  to  sustain  them  from  the  ordinary 
prices  of  tuition  and  board ;  and  hence  the  absolute  ne- 
cessity of  ample  endowments,  either  from  the  state,  or 
from  the  benefactions  of  individuals,  or  by  the  more 
sure  method  of  annual  collections,  in  order  to  keep  them 
in  successful  operation.  Of  this  all  must  be  sensible 
and  therefore  all  who  feel  an  interest  in  the  prosperity 
of  these  institutions  must,  if  they  would  have  them 
permanently  established,  contribute  Uberally  for  their 

support. 

In  the  month  of  September  this  year  was  commenced 
the  publication  of  the  Christian  Advocate,  a  weekly  pe- 
riodical, devoted  especially  to  the  interests  of  the  Me- 
thodist Episcopal  Church  and  to  general  intelligence. 
Periodical  literature  had  become  more  and  more  in  de- 
mand since  the  recommencement  of  the  Methodist  Ma- 
gazine, and  weekly  religious  newspapers  were  springing 
into  existence  among  almost  all  denominations  of  Chris- 
tians ;  and  two,  one  iu  Boston,  Mass.,  and  another  in 
Charleston,  S.  C,  were  published  under  the  patronage 
of  their  respective  conferences,  and  the  friends  of  the 
Church  very  generally  seemed  to  call  for  one  to  be 
issued  from  the  Book  Room.     This  led  to  a  consulta- 
tion among  the  editors  and  book  committee,  together 
with  some  of  the  annual  conferences ;  the  proposition 
was  finally  submitted  to  the  New-York  conference,  at 
its  session  in  May  of  this  year,  and  it  recommended 
tliat  measures  be  adopted  for  the  pul^lication  of  such  a 
ueriodical  with  all  convenient  soeed. 


•r 


1826.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


323 


It  is  true,  some  were  opposed  to  the  measure,  particu- 
larly those  who  were  interested  in  the  success  of  the 
papers  already  in  existence,  which  had  now  obtained 
an  extensive  circulation,  particularly  Zion's  Herald,  the 
one  issued  in  Boston.  This  opposition,  however,  was 
overruled,  and  the  first  number  of  the  Christian  Advo- 
cate was  published  on  the  9th  of  September,  1826. 

The  appearance  of  this  weekly  sheet,  filled,  as  it  was, 
with  useful  and  interesting  matter,  gave  great  satisfac- 
tion to  the  members  and  friends  of  our  Church,  and 
the  number  of  subscribers  in  a  very  short  time  amounted 
to  about  thirty  tho^sand.      That  it  has  done  much 
good,  and  was  most  opportunely  commenced,  has  been 
abundantly  demonstrated  in  every  successive  year  of  its 
circulation,  and  by  the  testimony  of  thousands  of  its 
readers.     By  this  means  intelligence  is  received  from 
every  part  of  the  world,  and  conveyed,  weekly,  as  from 
a  common  centre  of  information,  to  its  thousands  of 
readers  in  every  corner  of  the  land.     Thus  old  friend,^, 
who  may  be  separated   at  a  distance  of  thousands 
of  miles,  may  hear  from  each  other,  interchange  senti- 
ments, and,  in  some  sense,  converse  together  of  each 
other's  welfare;  and  what  the  Lord  is  doing  in  one 
part  of  his  vineyard  may  be  known  in  every  other 
part.     This  is  (he  advantage  which  a  general  possesses 
over  a  local  paper.     This  was  extensively  felt  and  ap- 
preciated, and  hence  its  circulation,  in  the  course  of  one 
yoar  from  its  commencement,  by  far  exceeded  every 
other  paper,  religious  or  secular,  published  in  the  United 
States. 

Sixty-three  preachers  located  this  year,  sixty-six  were 
returned  supernumerary,  eighty-six  superannuated,  two 
withdrew,  and  six  were  expelled:  twenty  had  di A. 

3 


.11 


324  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1826. 

Among  the  deaths  recorded  this  year  was  that  of 
John  Summerjield,  wliose  eminent  talents  as  a  preacher 
gave  him  a  commanding  attitude  before  the  community, 
and  excited  a  general  tone  of  regret  when  the  news  of 
his  death  was  announced.  For  a  full  account  of  his 
hfe  and  labors  I  must  refer  the  reader  to  his  biography, 
which  was  published  by  his  brother-in-law  soon  after 
his  death.  From  this  it  appears  that  he  v^as  born  in 
the  town  of  Preston,  in  England,  on  the  31st  of  Janu- 
ary, 1798.  His  father  was  a  local  preacher  in  the  Wes- 
leyan  Methodist  connection  in  England,  and  he  educated 
his  son  John  in  those  religious  principles  which  governed 
his  own  heart  and  life.  At  a  suitable  age  he  was  put 
under  the  tuition  of  the  Moravian  academy  at  Fair- 
field, near  Manchester,  where  he  gave  early  indications 
of  that  precocious  genius  for  which  he  was  afterward  so 
eminently  distinguished. 

In  1813  the  family  removed  to  Ireland,  where,  at  the 
age  of  seventeen,  young  Summerfield  was  made  a  par- 
taker of  justifying  grace  through  faith  in  Jesus  Clirist 
while  attending  a  prayer  meeting  with  some  pious  Me- 
thodist soldiers.  He  no  sooner  tasted  that  the  Lord  is 
gracious  than  he  felt  a  desire  that  others  should  partici- 
pate with  him  in  the  same  inestimable  blessing.  He 
accordingly  embraced  every  opportunity  to  invite  his 
fellow-sinners  to  come  to  the  fountain  of  salvation,  that 
they  might  drink  of  its  waters  and  live  for  ever.  In 
this  way  he  continued  to  exercise  his  gifts,  greatly  to 
the  satisfaction  of  those  who  heard  him,  until  1819, 
when  he  was  received  on  trial  in  the  Methodist  confer- 
ence of  Ireland.  As  it  was  a  time  of  some  trouble 
among  the  Methodist  societies  in  Ireland  in  those  days, 
and  as  the  fervor  of  his  snirit  and  oowers  of  nulpit  ora- 


1836.)  METHOO.ST    EP.5C0PAI   CHURCH.  335 

tlTl ''''"  "'""  "•'"'  "'^'"'"^  i"fl"«nce,  younff  a, 
ne  was,  he  was  spW^ori  ♦«  ♦„      i  .       J"""g  as 

tl.e  coumrx.  f    I  ^'^""^^  extensively  through 

hecountry,  for  the  purpose  of  promoting  the  ^eneial 
interests  of  the  socipripa     H«        .•       i  s^"eiai 

preach  in  Trills      .  ^o"t>nued  to  travel  and 

Pieach  in  Ireland,  making,  in  the  mean  time,  an  occa 
sional  visit  to  England,  until  1821,  when  his  fie; 
-noved  to  America,  and  John  accoi^pan  ed  h  m  tnd 
was  received  on  trial  in  #>,«  iv      v    •  '      " 

'l.e  spring  of  1821."  '  New-Yo-c  conference  in 

New  vfrt  ^PP'^^r  ■"  P""'"  »ft«f  h«  arrival  i„ 

imroduction  to  the  American  community.     Nor  were 
h.s  labors  ,„  the  pulpit  unappreciated.     The  hoi 
were  thronged  with  hearers  whenever  he  preached  and 
(he  auditors  hung  upon  his  lips  with  the  most  Intense 
n. terest  and  delight.     Persons  of  all  profeslrs  and  o 
1  classes  of  society  were  attracted  by  the  fame  of  hi 
eloquence,  and  expressed  their  admiration  of  the  powe; 

rere„«xtr.re"p^i„^srr.r^^V"''™"- 

Methodism  in  one  part  of  the  world  «l?  h"''^'"'"'""'  "' 
ev.ry  other  pa,..  Aceorting  ,:".'„";  "he"  F.TJ"^  '". 
Irish  conferences  a  orenohpr  -.1  •  .  *'"eli8h  and 

to  be  admitted  and  ordainpH  n  h  '    V.  "  he  is  ehgible 

had  traveled  three  vears  on  tria^nT^?^^  ^''  ^"'""^^''fi^'d 
of  course  had  but  one  yea?  more  to    n  ''^^  conference,  and 

„a..K,  „„,  ,„,.^3,,^  ,,^  ^^^  ^-^^^^^  ^^^  ^^^^.^^^  an  elder; 


326 


A    HISTORY    or   THE 


[1826. 


with  which  he  enchained  them  to  the  words  which 
dropped  from  his  Ups. 

Many  have  inquired  in  what  the  secret  of  this  power 
over  the  understandings  and  attention  of  the  multitude 
consisted.  In  whatever  else  it  might  have  consisted,  it 
was  not  in  empty  declamations,  in  boisterous  harangues, 
nor  yet  in  any  attempt  to  overpower  and  astonish  you 
with  sudden  bursts  of  eloquence;  nor  was  '*  -  opre- 
hend,  in  the  unusual  depth  and  profoundnv  his 

researches. 

Summerfield  was  young,  was  pious,  honest,  and  sim- 
ple-hearted, was  naturally  eloquent,  deeply  devoted  to 
the  cause  of  God,  possessed  a  great  command  of  lan- 
gu:ige,  and  his  style  of  preaching  was  chaste  and  clas- 
sical, flowing  from  him  with  an  easy  and  graceful 
elocution.  This  I  believe  to  be  the  secret  of  his  power. 
He  had  a  sound  understanding,  a  warm  heart,  and  a 
vivid  imagination — had  acquired  a  rich  stock  of  the 
most  useful  knowledge— and  hence,  whenever  he  spoke 
in  the  name  of  God,  he  poured  forth  from  a  heart  over- 
flowing with  the  kindliest  feelings  a  stream  of  evange- 
lical truth,  which  fell  upon  the  audience  "  like  dew  upon 
the  tender  herb,  and  like  rain  upon  the  mown  grass." 
A  "  godly  sincerity"  was  evidently  the  pervading  princi- 
ple of  his  heart,  and  a  tone  of  simplicity  characterize  1 
his  style  of  preaching.  When  you  heard  him  you  were 
charmed  with  the  melody  of  his  voice,  with  the  rich 
flow  of  his  language,  with  the  pure  and  evangelical 
sentiments  which  he  uttered,  and  with  the  deep  spirit 
of  piety  running  through  his  whole  performance.  No 
strained  efforts  to  dazzle  you  with  wit,  or  with  high- 
sounding  words,  with  pompous  periods,  with  far-fetched 
meta"hors,  or  with  sentences  awelled  and  encumbered 
3 


[1826. 
vords  which 

af  this  power 
he  multitude 
J  consisted,  it 
s  harangues, 
astonish  you 
,s  '*.   "    "^pre- 


dnv 


his 


lest,  and  sim- 
y  devoted  to 
(land  of  lan- 
ste  and  clas- 
and  graceful 
3f  his  power, 
heart,  and  a 
stock  of  the 
;ver  he  spoke 
a  heart  over- 
n  of  evange- 
ike  dew  upon 
nown  grass." 
ading  princi- 
characteriz*  ^ 
him  you  were 
with  the  rich 
]  evangelical 
he  deep  spirit 
rmance.  No 
r  with  high- 
th  far-fetched 
,  encumbered 


182r).]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  327 

with  an  accumulation  of  epithets,  appeared  in  any  of 
his  discourses  or  speeches.  On  the  contrary,  you  felt 
that  you  were  hstening  to  a  messenger  of  God,  honestly 
proclaiming  what  he  believed  to  be  the  truth,  in  lan- 
guage chaste  and  elegant,  flowing  from  a  heart  filled 
with  his  subject,  breathing  good-will  to  his  audience, 
and  intent  only  on  doing  them  good.  This  was  John 
Summerfield  in  the  pulpit;  and  his  popularity  arose 
from  an  active  zeal,  exemplified  in  his  spirit  and  words, 
to  promote  the  best  interests  of  all  classes  of  men  by  the 
wisest  possible  means. 

Nor  was  his  society  in  the  more  private  circles  less 
attractive  and  instructive.      On   his  first  appearance 
among  us  there  was  a  modesty  and  diffidence,  a  meek- 
ness and  humility,  every  way  becoming  a  Christian 
and  a  young  minister  who  felt  a  proper  deference  for 
his  seniors.     To  say  that  he  did  not,  in  some  measure 
at  least,  rise  in  self-confidence  with  the  rising  popularity 
of  his  character,  would  be  saying  what  no  one  acquainted 
with  human  nature  could  well  believe.    But  the  eleva 
tion  of  his  character,  as  a  preacher  of  the  gospel,  gave 
him  a  commanding  attitude  before   the   community, 
which  he  constantly  exerted  to  promote  the  highest  in- 
terests of  his  fellow-men.     He  certainly  bore  his  honors 
with  becoming  modesty,  and  availed  himself  of  his  great 
popularity  to  advance  the  honor  of  God  and  the  salva 
tion  of  men.     Though  the  minister  of  a  sect,  and  tho 
roughly  imbued  with  its  doctrine  and  spirit,  he  was  far 
irom  being  exclusive  in  his  feelings  and  views,  but  dis- 
played  that  spirit  of  Catholicism  which  enabled  him  to 
exert  a  hallowing  influence  on  all  ;   ound  him.     And 
while  he  must  have  carried  about  him  the  common 
'.nfirmities  of  our  nature,  they  were  but  as  occasional 

3 


M, 


3SIS  A    HISTORY    OF    TMK  [1826. 

spots  upon  the  sun-— they  obscured  his  lustre  but  for 
a  moment,  and  then  his  intellectual,  moral,  and  reli- 
gious excellences  shone  out  with  an  increasing  and  a 
steady  brilliancy. 

lU  most  certainly  exerted  a  beneficial  influence  upon 
tlio  interests  of  true  religion.  Nor  was  this  influence 
conflned  to  his  own  Church.  Other  denominations, 
and  particularly  the  various  charitable  and  religious  as- 
sociations, availed  themselves  of  his  talents  to  advocate 
their  cause  and  to  promote  tlieir  respective  objects.  Ami 
as  he  was  ever  ready  to  comply  with  their  wishes,  as 
Iwfore  said,  his  physical  powers  were  not  adequate  to 
the  task  of  such  continued  application.  The  fire  which 
burned  within  became  so  intense  that  the  material  ves- 
sel was  gradually  weakened  by  its  consuming  flames. 
He  was  at  first  prostrated  by  a  hemorrhage  of  the  lungs, 
from  which,  however,  he  partially  recovered,  so  as  to  lie 
able  to  appear  occasionally  in  public.  But  his  appear 
ttncc  was  extremely  wan  and  feeble,  while  his  soul  still 
broke  forth  in  those  strains  of  gospel  truth  and  persua- 
sive eloquence  which  captivated  his  hearers  and  melted 
them  into  tenderness. 

It  was  hoped  by  his  friends  that  a  voyage  to  Europe 
might  tend  to  reinvigorate  his  enfeebled  constitution.  He 
accordingly  made  a  voyage  to  France,  and  attended  the 
anniversary  of  the  Paris  Bible  Society  as  a  representa- 
tive of  the  American  Bible  Society,  where  he  delivered 
one  of  those  addresses  for  which  he  was  so  peculiarly 
qualifietl,  as  the  zealous  ond  able  advocate  of  institu- 
tions of  benevolence.  This  address,  which  was  inter- 
preted by  Mr.  Wilder,  an  American  gentleman,  and  a 
benevolent  Christian,  then  residing  in  Paris,  was  received 

a 


1826.]  MK-rnoBiST  rn'mcoi-Ai,  chokch.  3^9 

Will,  cmhuHiustic  a.lmirati«.     I.y  the  a«.liunco,  and 
ro,p<,„d„d  ,„  „.  term,  „f  a.toi„.m,„  rcB,«ct  «....  co„ 
gmtululio..,  expressive  of  the  joy  that  wan  felt  in  the 
""  <»«  o(  «e„t..„c.H  and  effort  which  mntually  pervaded 
arul  actuate.!  the  Paris  and  American  Uible  sJcieti!' 

On  l,,H  return  from  his  foreign  tour  he  entertained 
Hms  for  a  season,  that  his  health  might  be  restored; 
mt  tliese  hopen  were  soon  blasted  by  the  return  of  his 
.!««.*,  accon,,«ini«l  by  those  symptoms  which  gave 
."re  mdications  to  his  physicians  and  friends  that  his 
<lHs..hu.«n  was  nigh  at  hand.  After  lingering  for  a 
cons,derable  time,  frequently  suffering  exquisiteFv  from 
^«  violence  of  his  dfsorder,  he  at  L  glided  /weetly 
..n  I  ,«acefully  into  eternity,  in  the  twcnty-eighth  year 
of  .«  age,  and  the  eighth  of  his  public  ministry. 

»>.rmg  his  protracted  illness  he  exhibited  the  virtues 
of  ineokneRs  and  patience  in  an  eminent  degree,  bowing 
Hiibmissively  to  the  divine  mandate,  and  loolting  for 
ward  with  a  lively  h„pe  to  immortality  and  eternal  life. 
Though  sometimes  he  complained  of  the  want  of  spi- 
mual  consolation,  and  of  a  feeling  of  mental  gloom- 
wnch  arose,  no  doubt,  from  the  nature  of  his  disease- 

llT  *"""  f-  '^^  """'  •""  '"""if"''"'!  an  unshaken 
»nfidenco  m  his  God,  and  expressed  a  calm  resignation 
to  h.s  will,  mingled  with  a  hope  full  of  immortality. 
But  he  rests  from  his  labors,  and  his  works  of  faith  and 
labo«  of  love  have  foUowed  him  as  evidences  of  hi, 
iKlelity  to  the  cause  of  Gml. 

Another  who  fell  in  the  harness  this  year  was  an  old 
veteran  of  the  cross  of  Christ,  whose  long  services  and 
deep  devotion  to  the  cause  of  God  deserve  commemo- 
raiion. 

Daniel 


Asbury  had  been  in  the  rainistry  fort 


'J  J' 


lis. 


330 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1826. 


during  which  time  he  had  given  evidence  of  his  warm 
attachment  to  the  holy  cause  he  had  espoused,  by  the 
fidehty  with  which  he  had  discharged  his  Christian  and 
ministerial  duties.  He  was  not,  indeed,  a  great  preacher, 
but  he  was  remarkably  distinguished  for  the  meeloiesg 
of  his  disposition,  for  his  patience  in  suffering,  and  fot 
the  simplicity  of  his  manners.  He  therefore  won  the 
confidence  of  his  brethren  as  a  man  of  God,  and  a  most 
devoted  minister  of  Jesus  Christ. 

His  death  was.  sudden  and  peaceful.  Returning 
from  a  walk  in  the  yard,  he  looked  up  toward  heaven, 
with  a  smile  on  his  countenance,  and  uttering  a  few 
words,  he  sunk  into  the  arms  of  death,  in  the  sixty-fifth 
year  of  his  age. 

Daniel  Hitt  had  also  departed  to  another  world  in 
tlie  full  hope  of  eternal  hfe.  He  was  made  a  partaker 
of  the  grace  of  pardon  in  early  life,  and  in  1790  entered 
the  itinerant  ministry.  In  the  first  years  of  his  itine- 
rancy he  labored  much  in  the  new  settlements  in  Vir- 
ginia and  in  the  western  country,  where  he  won  for 
himself  those  laurels  \vhich  adorn  the  brow  of  the  faith- 
fid,  self-denying  m'aistcr  of  Jesus  Christ.  For  several 
years  he  was  the  traveling  companion  of  Bishop  Asbury, 
who  ever  treated  him  as  his  confidential  friend.  During 
these  travels  over  the  continent  he  became  extensively 
known  to  a  large  circle  of  friends,  who  esteemed  him 
highly  as  a  brother,  and  as  an  amiable  Christian  mi- 
nister. 

In  1808  he  was  elected  a  an  assistant  book  agent, 
in  which  office  he  served  for  four  years,  under  the  su- 
|)orvision  of  the  Rev.  John  Wilson.  At  the  end  of  this 
term  he  was  elected  the  principal,  in  which  office  he 
continued  to  discharge  its  duties,  according  to  the  best 
3 


i' 


1826.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


331 


of  his  ability,  to  the  end  of  his  constitutional  term,  in 
1816.  Though  his  literary  attainments  were  limited, 
yet  his  strict  integrity  and  great  fidelity  eminently  fitted 
him  for  a  faithful  discharge  of  his  duties  in  the  high 
trust  confided  to  him.  And  the  affabihty  of  his  Man- 
ners, the  sweetness  of  his  disposition,  and  his  courteous 
conduct  in  the  social  circle,  endeared  him  to  his  friends, 
as  a  companion  in  whose  society  they  delighted  to 
mingle. 

In  the  pulpit  he  dwelt  chiefly  upon  experimental  and 
practical  religion,  seldom  entering  upon  those  contro- 
verted points  which  so  often  involve  discussions  among 
the  several  denominations  of  Christians.  Here  he  was 
solemn  and  dignified,  and  strove  to  impress  upon  the 
minds  of  all  the  importance  of  a  practical  attention  to 
the  truths  which  he  uttered. 

He  died  of  the  typhus  fever.  In  his  sickness  his 
mind  was  kept  in  peace,  and  he  died  in  the  triumph  of 
faith  and  love. 

Another  aged  veteran,  Joseph  Toy,  was  taken  from 
she  walls  of  our  Jerusalem  to  his  resting  place  above. 
He  was  brought  from  darkness  to  light  under  the 
preaching  of  Captain  Webb,  who  was  one  of  the  first 
Methodist  preachers  in  America,  and  was  at  that  time 
preaching  in  Burlington,  New-Jersey.  This  was  in 
the  year  1770,  and  Joseph  was  then  in  the  twenty- 
second  year  of  his  age.  After  receiving  license  to 
preach,  he  labored  as  a  local  preacher  until  1801,  when 
he  entered  the  itinerancy,  in  which  he  continued,  faith- 
fully discharging  its  duties,  to  the  end  of  hir;  life. 

In  1819,  in  consequence  of  debility,  h  j  was  returned 
superannuated,  and  he  settled  in  tlie  city  of  Baltimore, 
where  he  preached  occasionally,  and  was  beloved  and 


332 


A    HIHTDKY    OF    TIIR 


[182(1. 


i*a.i 


roHiiecUHl  by  all  who  know  him.  Having  lUUnl  tip  thn 
moasiiio  of  liin  (Ijiys  iu  oUidiciicrt  lo  the  will  o(  (^od,  ho 
died  iu  great  |H'ace,  on  the  28th  ilay  of  January,  !82(), 
iu  the  .sevouty-ninlh  year  of  Imh  ajife. 

One  of  the  exoelleuce*«  of  brother  Toy  was  the  punc- 
tuality wilh  which  he  filled  Iuh  eugagenieu(i«.  At  the 
a|ife  of  seventy  he  wan  heard  to  nay  that  for  twenty ' 
years  he  had  not  disap|H)inted  a  congregation  a  prac- 
tice worthy  of  the  iniitation  of  all.  Although,  in  the 
latter  pan.  of  his  life,  bis  sight  so  failed  him  that  it  was 
diiricull  for  him  to  walk  the  streets  without  help,  y«t  ho 
continued  to  preach  almost  every  sabbath,  and  some- 
times twice,  and  was  finally  conducted  from  the  pulpit 
to  his  dying  l>cd,  on  which  he  manifested  a  |)erfect  sub- 
mission to  the  divine  will,  exprejssing  his  fuiu  reliance 
upon  the  promise  of  eternal  life. 

John  P.  J'Hnlei/,  professor  of  languages  in  the  Au- 
gusta (\)llege,  Kentucky,  bad  entered  into  rest  dming 
the  past  year.  Though  he  was  yomig  in  the  itinerant 
ministry,  yet  he  was  a  man  of  distinguished  worth,  and 
possessed  virtues  which  may  he  profitably  held  up  for 
the  imitation  of  others.  The  following  account  is  from 
the  fMju  of  Dr.  Bascom,  whoso  intimate  knowliMlge  of 
the  subject  of  his  remarks  enabled  him  to  depict  the 
character  of  brother  Finley  as  it  was,  and  especially  to 
present  those  peculiarities  by  which  he  was  distin- 
guished : — 

"  .John  P.  Finley  was  born  in  North  Carolinn,  .hino  13tli, 
1783.  From  childhood  ho  was  marked  as  possessing  no 
common  share  of  intellect.  He  was  early  placed  at  school, 
and  while  in  his  abecedarian  course  he  evinced  an  apti- 
tude to  learn  that  induced  his  father,  a  distinguished  Pres- 
byterian clergyman,  (who  is  now,  at  the  age  of  seventy,  a 


(Uled  lip  thn 
ill  of  (^0(1,  hu 
imaiy,  !H2('», 

'n»  the  |nnKv 
)u{».  At  the 
t  lor  twenty ' 
Lion  -11  prac- 
:)(i,sj;-|i,  in  the 
n  tlint  it  was 
.  holp,  y«t  ho 
I,  and  Honio- 
nt  th('  pnlpit 

I  |MM'fcC,t  HUl)- 

liiin  roliaiico 

H  ill  tho  An- 
0  r(5st  <hnini( 
tho  ilintM-nnt 
d  worth,  and 
hold  iij)  for 
'onnt  is  from 
nowl(Mli!^e  of 
to  depict  tho 
especially  to 
was  distin- 

la,  Juno  13tli, 
OHSossinef  no 
lmhI  at  school, 
iced  an  npti- 
[uishod  Pros- 
of  seventy,  a 


1826.] 


MKTMODiRT  KiMnroi'Af.  rinmrif. 


333 


MediodiNt  trnvc^liniif   prnarhor.)  to 


Kivo   him  a  chiwirwl 


o.hu'ation.     Owin^  to  hir.  IimImIn  uf  indiwfrv  ami 


nmcr.  no 


perwovn- 


Nooii   anpiiitMl   ji  rompolnu   knowh'd^n  of  thn 
N<MoncrN.  „nd  a  n»pulal»Io  ar.pu,iiilHnen  with  thn  loanuMl 
hmtiWxuvH.     Of  ,|u,    Kn^iui,  |,„,^„„^„  |,„  ^,^,  ,^  j,„^,.,^,^ 
«n..M.>r.  and  tau«ht   itn  proper  ^m^  with  almoNt  umivahMl 
mrvoHH.     Trom  l\w  a^n  of  iwrlvo  or  fiairfomi  yourN  hn 
w»N  ol><«n  <looply  a(r.M  h.(l  With  a  n.mino  of  win,  ,in,i  i|,o  i,,,- 
porlanoo  of  roprntanoo   and  faith  ;  hut   Ion  mind  wan  ho 
iiuich  perplrxiMl  with  tho  ,lo,lrin.«H  of  almohitn  personal 
pn-drHli,u.ti.m,  of  whi.«h  IiIm  fathor  was  iIhmi  a  NtromauiH 
and  ahio  asNcrtor.  Mint  ho  cuiio  to  no  drcision  on  tim  snh. 
j<'ct  of  n^li^ionN  opinions  nntil   ho  romdiod  tho  yoarw  (.f 
'H'odiood.     Ahont  tho  a^o  of  tw<<ntv-<Hio  hn  marriod,  and 
soon  aftor  was  hrcni^rj.t  to  tho  knowlodwo  of  Malvation  hy 
lli«'  romiHsi.m  of  his  mns.      Karly  ullor  his  conv..rHi..n  hn 
was  convin.MMl    that   ii  •  disponsarion   of  tho   «<,Hpol'   hud 
'""7'  '•"'••"'i'KMl  to  him.      I  In  w«m«IhmI  wnll  il,o  imprnssions 
and  ronv.cli.ms  of  his  mind  and  hoart  in  rolation  to  thn 
'•'"'•hdand  rnsponsihio  hnsinoss  of  u  (Christian  minislnr  • 
lait,  whon  fmally  and  fully  convinced  of  his  ,hity,  ho  .lid 
not  hositato.     Thoro  wore,  indon<l,  many  reasons  why  ho 
Hhould  confnr  with  Ih.sh  and  Idood,  but  with  his  characlnr- 
islir  (irnmoss  ho  rojoctod  tlunn  all,  and  t(»ok  tho  pulpit,  I 
tl""l<,  in  IHI  I.     At  tho  tim<«  of  his  ccmvnrsion  ho  residod 
la  Ih^ddand  ,-ounly,  Ohio.     Hin  niinislorial  oaroor  was 
ooaunenrod  durin^r  u  resi.lonco  in  Union,  (Innrnv  county. 
Ohio,  whitlinr  ho  had  boon  oallod  to  tako  charge  of  a  so-' 
aiinary.     At  tho  lu»ad  of  this  institution  he  continued  ub.nit 
six  yoars,  living  and  preaching  the  religion  of  Christ  in  its 
iiafivo  simplicity  and  power. 

"From  Union  he  removed  to  Dayton,  distant  only  about 
thirty  mihis,  and  conducted  an  academy  in  this  place  for 
two  years.  It  was  here  our  ac(puiinlanco  and  intimacy 
commenced,  which  ended  only  with  his  useful  life.     He 

3 


334  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1826. 

left  Dayton,  beloved  and  regretted  of  all,  and  accepted  a 
call  to  superintend  a  respectable  seminary  in  Steubenville, 
Ohio.  In  this  place  he  continued  not  quite  two  years.  In 
his  ministerial  exertions  he  was  '  instant  in  season  and 
out  of  season,'  and  labored  with  more  than  ordinary  suc- 
cess. His  next  remove  was  to  Piqua,  Ohio,  where  he 
continued  as  principal  of  an  academy  for  four  years.  In 
all  these  places  his  pulpit  effoVts  were  highly  acceptable ; 
his  social  intercourse  seasoned  with  dignity  and  piety,  and 
his  residence  a  blessing  to  all  about  him.  From  this  place 
he  made  his  last  remove  to  Augusta,  Kentucky.  Here  he 
taught  a  classical  school  for  some  time,  and  was  afterward 
appointed  principal  of  Augusta  College,  in  which  relation 
he  continued  until  the  time  of  his  death.  In  these  several 
places  his  labors  in  the  pulpit  were  considerable  and  ex- 
tensively useful.  All  who  knew  him  esteemed  him  as  a 
man  of  talents  and  irreproachable  Christian  character.  He 
was  indeed,  all  in  all,  one  of  the  most  amiable,  guileless 
men  I  ever  knew  :  never  did  I  know  a  man  more  perfectly 
under  the  influence  of  moral  and  religious  principle.  His 
uniform  course  was  one  of  high  and  unbending  rectitude. 
One  error,  as  reported  in  the  *  Minutes,'  respecting  his 
conversion,  I  must  beg  leave  to  correct.  I  do  it  upon  his 
own  authority  (when  living)  and  that  of  his  brother,  the 
Rev.  James  B.  Finley,  superintendent  of  the  Wyandot  mis- 
sion. There  is  something  rather  remarkable  in  the  man- 
ner in  which  these  worthy  ministers  were  first  brought  to 
reflect  with  more  than  ordinary  concern  upon  their  latter 
end.  John  and  James  were  amusing  themselves  in  the 
forest  with  their  guns ;  and  as  John  was  sitting  carelessly 
upon  his  horse,  James's  gun  accidentally  went  ofl',  and  the 
contents  came  very  near  entering  John's  head.  The  bro- 
thers were  mutually  alarmed,  humbled,  and  thankful ;  they 
were  more  than  ever  struck  with  the  melancholy  truth, 
thai  "in  lui;  uuusi  ui  wic  wc  uic  iu  ucoi« ,    m-cj 


Aartt^A 


[1826. 

nd  accepted  a 
n  Stcubenville, 
two  years.    In 

in  season  and 
I  ordinary  suc- 
►hio,  where  he 
3ur  years.  In 
dy  acceptable ; 
'  and  piety,  and 
i^'rom  this  place 
cky.  Here  he 
I  was  afterward 
which  relation 
n  these  several 
erable  and  ex- 
jmed  him  as  a 
character.  He 
liable,  guileless 

more  perfectly 
principle.  His 
iding  rectitude. 

respecting  his 
'.  do  it  upon  his 
lis  brother,  the 
3  Wyandot  mis- 
jle  in  the  man- 
first  brought  to 
pon  their  latter 
jmselves  in  the 
tting  carelessly 
rent  ofl',  and  the 
.ead.     The  bro- 

thankful;  they 
elancholy  truth, 


335 


ItAvr    fVk 


(\£iMt^(\ 


1826.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 

upon  their  unpreparedness  to  meet  death  and  appear  in 
judgment.  Each  promised  the  other  he  would  reform ; 
and  the  result  was,  they  were  both  led  to  seek  religion,  as' 
the  only  preparation  for  eternity.  Both  the  brothers  agree 
in  stating  that  this  circumstance  was  the  means,  in^the 
hand  of  God,  of  their  awakening  and  conversion,  as  nei- 
ther of  them  was  in  the  habit  of  attending  the  preaching 
of  the  gospel  before  the  inquietude  and  alarm  created  by 
this  occasion.  I  have  been  thus  minute  in  detailing  the 
immediate  means  of  his  conversion,  at  the  request  of  a 
surviving  brother,  in  whose  estimation  the  apparent  incom- 
petency  of  the  means  magnifies  the  grace  of  God  in  this 
singular  dispensation  of  blended  mercy  and  providence. 

"John  P.  Finley  was  in  the  ministry  about  fifteen 
years.  He  was  ordained  deacon  by  Bishop  Asbury,  on 
the  17th  of  September,  1815.  He  received  ordination  as 
elder  at  the  hands  of  Bishop  Roberts,  July  2,  1820.  At 
the  time  of  his  death  he  was  a  member  of  the  Kentucky 
annual  conference-actively  dividing  his  time  and  energies 
between  the  business  of  collegiate  instruction  and  the 
labor  of  the  pulpit. 

"As  a  man,  the  subject  of  these  recollections  was  en- 
gaginfTly  amiable,  ingenuous,  and  agreeable;  equally 
removed  from  afl'ectation  and  reserve,  the  circle  in  which 
he  moved  felt  the  presence  of  a  friend  and  the  influence 
of  a  Christian  and  minister. 

"  As  a  teacher,  his  excellence  was  acknowledged  by  all 
who  were  competent  to  decide  upon  his  claims;  and 
though  he  gloried  most  in  being  found  a  pupil  in  the 
school  of  Christ,  yet  he  was  no  stranger  to  the  academy 
and  lyceum. 

"  As  a  husband,  there  is  one  living  whose  tears  have 

been  liis  eulogy,  and  to  whom,  with  his  orphan  children, 

friendship  inscribes  these   lines.     As  a  father,  he   was' 

.  ...   ,,.,  X.JI11UICI1,  u.nd  m  pomung  lUeiu  to  another 

3 


,•» 


m  ),-■■ 


i; 


M 

■I- 


*:  ■! 


336  A    HISTORY   OP   THB  [1826. 

and  better  world  he  was  always  careful  to  lead  the  way 

himself. 

«*  As  &  friend,  he  was  warm,  ardent,  and  confiding,  and 
not  less  generous  than  constant ;  his  intimate  friends,  how- 
ever, were  few  and  well  selected. 

"  As  a  minister^  in  the  pulpit,  he  was  able,  impressive, 
and  overwhelming.  The  cross  of  his  redemption  was  his 
theme,  and  in  life  and  death  it  became  to  him  the  *  em- 
phasis of  every  joy.'  In  all  these  relations  I  knew  him 
well,  and  can  therefore  speak  from  the  confidence  of  per- 
sonal knowledge  and  accredited  information. 

*'  The  last  time  I  saw  him  I  preached  a  sermon,  at  his 
request,  on  the  *  Inspiration  of  the  Scriptures.'  When  I 
had  retired  to  my  room,  he  called  on  me,  in  company  with 
a  friend,  and  in  his  usual  frank  manner  embraced  me,  and 
observed, '  H ,  I  thank  you  for  that  sermon,  and  I  ex- 
pect to  repeat  my  gratitude  in  heaven.*  Little  did  I  think, 
at  this  interview,  I  was  gazing  on  my  friend  for  the  last 
time,  and  that  in  eighteen  months  his  ripened  virtues  were 
to  receive  the  rewards  of  the  heavenly  world !  But  so 
it  was,  and  I,  less  fit  to  die,  am  spared  another  and  another 
year. 

"  He  died  on  the  8th  of  May,  1825,  in  the  forty-second 
year  of  his  age  and  sixteenth  of  his  ministry ;  and  at  the 
same  time  that  his  bereaved  family  wept  upon  his  grave, 
the  sadness  of  the  Church  told  that  she  had  lost  one  of 
her  brightest  ornaments.  Just  before  his  triumphant  spirit 
rose  to  sink  and  sigh  no  more,  he  was  asked  how  he  felt, 
and  what  were  his  prospects  upon  entering  the  dark  valley 
and  shadow  of  death.  He  replied,  in  language  worthy  of 
inunortality,  '  Not  the  shadow  of  a  doubt ;  I  have  Christ 
within,  the  hope  of  glory — that  comprehends  all ,'  and  then, 
with  the  proto-mariyr,  he  '  fell  asleep.' 

"  Such  is  a  very  imperfect  sketch  of  the  life,  character, 
and  deatli  of  John  P.  Finley.     God  grant,  reader,  that 


1827.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  837 

you  and  I  may  share  the  glory  that  gilded  the  last  hours 
of  his  toil." 

Of  Nathan  Walker,  Martin  Flint,  William 
Young  Thomas  Wright,  John  Wjtite,  Henry  P. 
Cook,  Christopher  /S.  Mooring,  David  Stevens,  iSvl- 
vester  G.  Hill,  Ezekiel  CanfieU,  William  S.  PeL, 
Samuel  G.  Atkins,  and  Damon  Yotmg,  who  had 
departed  this  life  during  the  past  year,  it  is  recorded 
that  they  all  finished  their  course  with  joy. 

Number  of  Church  members. 

Whites.  Colored.  Total.       Preacher.. 

This  year        309,550      51,334    360,884     1406 

Last  year         298,058      49,537    348,195     1,314 

Increase 


10,892        1,797      12,689 


92 


1827.  This  year  the  «  Sunday  School  Union  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church"  was  formed  in  the  city 
of  New-York.     The  reader,  however,  is  not  to  infer 
from  this  that  the  Methodists  now  for  the  first  time  en- 
tered upon  the  work  of  Sunday  school  instruction.    la 
the  first  volume  of  this  History  we  have  seen  that  sab- 
bath schools  were  commenced  among  the  Methodists 
in  tliis  coimtry  as  early  as  1790,  but  were  soon  discon- 
tinued for  want  of  suflicient  encouragement.     The  ori- 
gin of  these  schools  in  England  is  well  known ;  and 
Mr.  Wesley  was  among  the  first  to  patronize  and  re- 
commend them  to  his  people,  and  they  soon  became 
very  general  throughout  his  societies. 

It  was  about  (be  year  1816  that  the  several  denomi- 
nations of  evangelical  Christians  in  this  country  began 
to  turn  their  attention  to  Sunday  school  instruction, 

J ..,  „  „:,xo.„  v.,s3  iurinea  lor  tne  purpose  of 

22  g 


338 


A   HISTORY   OF    THE 


[1827 


n 


\r. 


harmonizing  their  views  and  concentrating  their  efforts, 
under  an  impression  that  by  these  means  more  good 
might  be  effected  to  the  rising  generation  than  by  sepa- 
rate and  denominational  action.  This  resulted  in  the 
formation  of  the  "American  Sunday  School  Union," 
which  was  located  in  the  city  of  Philadelphia,  and  ex- 
tended itself,  by  means  of  auxiliaries,  all  over  the  United 
States,  embracing  all  evangelical  denominations,  or 
so  many  of  each  as  chose  to  unite  with  them.  Into 
this  union  our  people  had  in  some  places  entered.  By 
the  parent  society  books  were  issued,  agents  employed 
to  travel  through  the  country  to  promote  its  objects,  and 
a  weekly  periodical  commenced,  devoted  especially  to 
the  interests  of  sabbath  schools. 

With  this  general  union,  however,  all  were  not  satis- 
fied. Most  of  the  Protestant  Episcopalians  chose  to 
conduct  their  schools  independently  of  the  American 
Union,  and  many  of  the  Methodists  were  uneasy  under 
this  regulation ;  and,  after  much  consultation,  it  was 
finally  agreed  to  form  a  Sunday  school  society  of  our 
own,  under  such  regulations  as  should  be  conformable 
to  our  doctrinal  and  other  peculiarities.  The  reasons 
for  this  measure  I  cannot  express  better  than  in  the 
following  address,  which  was  sent  out  by  the  managers 
immediately  after  the  formation  of  the  society.  It  fully 
unfolds  the  motives  and  objects  by  which  its  founders 
were  actuated.    It  is  as  follows : — 

"  In  approaching  you  on  the  subject  to  which  your  at- 
tention is  now  invited,  the  managers  take  the  liberty  of 
stating  a  few  things  which  have  dictated  the  propriety  of 
forming  the  society  designated  by  the  above  constitution. 
They  can  pssure  you  that  they  have  not  been  led  hastily 
into  this  measure,  but,  according  to  their  best  ability,  have 


1827.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  330 

carefully  weighed  every  circumstance  connected  with  it 
having  deliberately  consulted  with  each  other,  and  with 
their  most  agjd  and  experienced  brethren,  both  preachers 
and  private  members  of  the  Church. 

"The  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  is  now  composed 
of  nearly  four  hundred  thousand  members,  upward  of  four- 
teen hundred  traveling  preachers,  and  perhaps  more  than 
double  that  number  of  local  preachers.     From  the  peculiar 
organization  of  this  Church,  all  these  are  considered  as 
one  body  adopting  the  same  doctrines,  discipline,  mode 
ot  church  government,  and,  the  managers  would  hope 
actuated  by  the  same  spirit,  under  the  same  great  Head 
oi  the  church,  striving  to  « preserve  the  unity  of  the  Spirit 
m  the  bonds  of  peace.'     These,  together  with  the  regular 
attendams  on  the  Methodist  ministry,  make  a  population, 
including  children,  of  not  less  than  two  millions,  which 
arc  dependent  on  the  ministrations  of  our  Church. 

"Without  even  insinuating  the  want  of  soundness  in  the 
cardinal  principles  of  Christianity  in  the  major  part  of 
other  Christian  denominations  in  our  coumry,  or  callinff  in 
question  the  purity  of  their  motives  or  ardency  of  their 
zeal,  the  managers  will  not  conceal  the  fact,  that  they  give 
a  decided  preference  to  their  own  Church,  firmly  believincr 
Its  doctrines  and  discipline,  and  have  witnessed  with  un^ 
speakable  joy  its  surprising  progress  in  so  short  a  time, 
and  Its  salutary  influence  on  the  hearts  and  lives  of  so 
many  happy  thousands.     It  is  a  truth  as  evident  as  the 
blaze  of  the  sun  at  mid-day,  that  the  first  impetus  which 
was  given  to  the  great  work  of  reformation  now  going  for- 
ward in  the  world,  God  gave  through  the  instrumentality 
ot  the  Wesleys  and  their  coadjiuors  in  the  '  ministry  of  re- 
conciliation.'    The  introduction  into  this  country  of  a  spi- 
ntual  and  energetic  itinerating  ministry,  first  begun  by 
those  men  of  God,  has  produced  results  at  once  astonish- 
>ng  and  deliirhtfiil.     ntV 


-\.A.         ^1_ 


vuugiii  iflu  iuiasionary 


In 
CI 

I  ^ 

\n 

I?  ■ 

I 

I 


340  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1827. 

spirit,  and  have  entered  into  the  work  with  zeal  and  suc- 
cess.    In  spreading  pure  religion,  the  managers  wish  them 

all  good  speed. 

"Among  other  effects  of  this  great  work,  by  which  the 
present  ago  is  distinguished,  sabbath  school  instruction  is 
not  the  least.  The  primary  object  of  the  first  promoters 
of  this  work  was  to  afford  elementary  instruction  to  such 
poor  children  as  were  destitute  of  common  day  school 
education,  and  at  the  same  time  to  give  such  religious  in- 
struction as  is  suited  to  the  age  and  capacity  of  the  chil- 
dren. The  utility  of  this  mode  of  imparting  knowledge  to 
the  juvenile  mind  soon  became  apparent  to  all  denomina- 
tions of  Christians,  and  in  the  large  towns  and  cities  espe- 
cially they  have  less  or  more  availed  themselves  of  its 
advantages.  In  the  progress  of  the  work,  in  our  country, 
efforts  have  boon  made  to  unite  all  sects  and  parties  in  one 
general  society,  called  *The  American  Sunday  School 
Union  Society;'  and  while  many  have  come  into  this 
union,  others,  thinking  it  best  to  man&ge  their  own  affairs 
in  their  own  way,  remain  in  an  insulated  state,  or  have 
arrayed  themselves  under  the  standard  of  their  own  deno- 
mination. 

"  Among  others  who  have  hitherto  stood  alone,  there 
are  many  belonging  to  our  Church.  Not  feeling  inclined 
to  connect  themselves  with  the  general  union,  and  finding 
no  centre  of  union  in  their  own  Church,  they  have  long 
felt  the  inconvenience  of  their  insulated  state.  As  the 
Methodist  Book  Concern  is  located  in  the  city  of  New- 
York,  it  was  natural  for  them  to  look  to  this  place  for  aid. 
Accotdingly,  frequent  applications  have  been  made  to  the 
ai^ents  of  that  establishment  in  reference  to  this  subject. 
It  was  at  once  perceived  that  this  establishment  afforded 
facilities  for  printing  and  circulating  books  suitable  for 
Sunday  schools,  as  well  as  the  receiving  and  sending  out, 
xi ^v  lU-  w.«j:..~.  nf  »V>n  novindinal  TiTftrka  nrinted  theiO, 

3 


1827.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


341 


all  necessary  information  in  relation  to  their  institution 
which  could  not  be  obtained  elsewhere ;  and  the  agents 
of  that  Concern  have  pledged  themselves  to  the  society 
that  Sunday  school  books  shall  be  furnished  by  them  as 
cheap  as  they  can  be  obtained  at  any  other  place. 

"These  circumstances  led  to  the  idea  of  forming  a 
Sunday  School  Union  for  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church. 
But  here,  at  the  outset,  many  difficulties  were  to  be  en- 
countered.    Most  of  those  in  our  Church  engaged  in  Sun- 
day schools  in  the  city  of  New-York  were  connected  with 
the  general  union ;  and  though  some  things  had  recently 
transpired  of  which  they  could  not  wholly  approve,  they 
were  strongly  attached  to  the  union,  having  labored  in  this 
work  with  their  brethren  of  other  denominations  with  much 
harmony   and  Christian  feeling;   but,   after   deliberating 
with  calmness  on  all  the  circumstances  of  the  case,  the 
managers  are  convinced  that  duty  enjoins  it  on  them,  be- 
cause more  good  nay  be  ultimately  accomplished,  to  form 
a  union  for  the  Church  of  which  they  are  members,  inde- 
pendent of  the  American  Union.     Experiment  alone  will 
test  the  correctness  of  this  opinion. 

"  It  has  already  been  observed,  that  the  primary  object 
of  Sunday  schools  was  to  impart  elementary  instruction, 
mixed  with  religious  improvement,  to  those  children  who 
were  destitute  of  the  advantages  derived  from  common 
schools.     Though  this  original  object  ought  never  to  be 
abandoned,  yet  the  general  diffusion  of  this  sort  of  instruc- 
tion in  our   country,   through   the   medium  of  common 
schools,  and  public  and  private  free  schools,  renders  this 
object  less  essential.     Hence  religious  instruction  is  the 
grand  and  primary  object  of  Sunday  school  instruction  in 
our  day  and  among  our  children.     On  this  account,  how- 
ever humiliating  the  fact,  a  general  union  of  all  parties 
becomes  the  more  difficult.     Whatever  may  be  the  inten- 
tion, each  tfinr.hftr  nf  rolimnn  «»ri11    m<%«»    ^«    1 C ,l__x_ 


343 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


f' 


[1827. 

his  own  peculiar  views  of  Christianity,  and  thus  insensi- 
bly create  party  feelings  and  interests.  And  this  difficulty 
is  inci eased  by  the  practice  recently  adopted  by  the  em- 
ployment of  missionaries  who  are  to  be  supported  from 
the  funds  of  the  general  institution.  The  managers  are 
of  the  opinion,  that  the  most  likely  way  for  the  several 
denominations  to  live  and  labor  together  in  peace,  is  for 
each  to  conduct  its  own  affairs,  and  still  to  hold  out  the 
hand  of  fellowship  to  its  neighbor.  They  therefore  dis- 
claim all  unfriendly  feeling  toward  others  who  may  be 
engagsd  in  this  good  work.  They  wish  them  all  success 
in  diffusing  moral  and  religious  influence  on  the  minds  of 
yoith,  and  hope  always  to  be  ready  to  reciprocate  any 
act  of  kindness  which  may  contribute  to  strengthen  each 
other's  hands  in  the  work  in  which  they  are  mutually 

engaged. 

"  Having  thus  explained  the  views  of  the  society,  the 
rar.nagers  would  now  call  on  their  brethren  and  friends  to 
unite  with  them,  by  establishing,  wherever  it  is  practica- 
ble, Sunday  school  associations  auxiliary  to  this  society. 
To  give  a  direction  to  this  work,  and  to  produce  as  much 
uniformity  as  local  circumstances  will  allow,  the  form  of  a 
constitution  suitable   for  auxiliary  societies  is  herewith 

submitted. 

"  One  principal  reason  for  locating  the  parent  society 
in  New-York,  in  preference  to  any  other  place,  is  the 
facilities  afforded  by  our  Book  Concern  for  printing  and 
circulating  books.  The  agents  of  that  growing  establish- 
ment bold  an  extensive  correspondence  with  every  part 
of  our  country,  and  possess  the  readiest  means  of  commu- 
nicating information  on  every  subject  connected  with 
Sunday  school  instruction,  and  can  supply  any  auxiliary 
with  books  on  the  shortest  notice  and  cheapest  terms. 
And  it  will  be  perceived,  by  an  article  in  the  constitution, 
♦K"*  K,r  rxatriniT  tlirAfi  HnllaTH  into  the  funds  of  the  inslitu- 


1827.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL   CHURCH. 


343 


tion,  sending  a  list  of  its  officers,  and  a  copy  of  its  annual 
report,  an  auxiliary  is  entitled  to  purchase  books  at  the 
reduced  prices.  A  list  of  the  books,  with  the  prices  an- 
nexed, will  hereafter  be  furnished  through  the  medium  of 
the  Advocate  and  Journal. 

"  That  an  itinerating  ministry  possesses  advantages  pe- 
culiar to  itself,  in  promoting  objects  of  benevolence,  will 
not  be,  by  any,  disputed.  This,  as  well  as  the  manner  in 
which  our  Book  Concern  is  conducted,  supersedes  the 
necessity  and  the  expense  of  employing  separate  agencies 
in  order  to  carry  on  the  work  of  Sunday  school  instruc- 
tion. The  funds,  therefore,  which  may  be  raised,  can  be 
appropriated  to  the  purchase  of  books. 

"  It  will  be  perceived  from  the  constitution,  that  it  is 
the  design  of  this  society,  by  means  of  auxiliaries,  to 
comprehend  every  part  of  our  Church  in  this  great  and 
good  cause.     The  senior  bishop  is  constituted  the  presi- 
dent, and  the  other  four  bishops  are  vice  presidents  ;  and 
provision  is  made  for  each  annual  conference  to  elect  a 
vice  president  from  its  own  body ;  and  the  board  of  ma- 
nagers being  located  in  New-York,  a  centre  of  union  is 
formed  for  the  whole  community,  and  all  being  connected 
with  our  Book  Concern,  an  easy  channel  of  communica- 
tion is  opened,  by  which  books  may  be  printed  and  circu- 
lated, and  remittances  and  information  made  and  received. 
"  These  being  the  views  and  objects  of  the  society,  the 
managers  think  that  they  may  confidently  call  on  their 
brethren  and  friends  for  their  aid  and  co-operation.     To 
the  ministers  of  the  Church,  especially,  do  they  look  for 
an  efficient  effi)rt  in  carrying  the  benevolent  design  into 
practical  operation.     Let  them  think  on  the   numerous 
children  imbosomed  in  the  Church,  which  they  are  ap- 
pointed to  nourish  with  the  sincere  milk  of  the  word.    These 
are  the  lambs  of  the  flock,  which,  that  they  may  become 
ihe  sheep  of  God's  pasture,  must  be  tenderly  nursed.    Let 


p 


^ 


h 


gr    ^S 


344  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1837, 

them,  therefore,  be  gathered  into  the  fold  of  sabbath 
schools,  put  under  the  care  of  faithful  shepherds,  who  will 
watch  over  their  welfare,  instil  into  their  minds  moral  and 
religious  truth,  and  thus  prepare  them,  under  the  influence 
of  divine  grace,  to  become  faithful  followers  of  the  chief 
Shephtid  and  Bishop  of  their  souls. 

"  The  managers  conclude  by  commending  their  cause 
to  God  and  to  the  prayers  of  their  brethren,  that  they  may 
be  wisely  directed  in  this  arduous  enterprise,  and  by  say- 
ing that  any  suggestion,  by  which  the  system  may  be  im- 
proved, so  as  to  accomplish  more  perfectly  the  purposes 
of  its  organization,  will  be  thankfully  received  and  duly 
considered." 

The  following  article  in  the  constitution  of  the  society 
will  show  what  were  its  objects : — 

"  The  objects  of  this  society  shall  be,  to  promote  the 
formation  and  to  concentrate  the  efforts  of  sabbath  schools 
connected  with  the  congregations  of  the  Methodist  Epis- 
copal Church,  and  all  others  that  may  become  auxiliary ; 
to  aid  in  the  instruction  of  the  rising  generation,  particu- 
larly in  the  knowledge  of  the  Holy  Scriptures,  and  in  the 
service  and  worship  of  God." 

Provision  was  then  made  for  the  formation  of  auxi- 
liary societies,  and  other  matters  usually  connected 
with  Sunday  school  operations,  for  furnishing  books, 
funds,  &c. 

The  constitution  was  adopted  and  the  society  formed 
oil  the  second  day  of  April,  1827,  and  it  commenced  its 
operations  under  the  most  favorable  auspices,  The 
measure,  indeed,  was  very  generally  approved,  and 
hailed  with  grateful  delight  by  our  brethren  and  friends 
throughout  the  country.  It  received  the  sanction  of  the 
several  annual  conference^,  vyho  recommeride4  tp  the 


1827.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


345 


people  of  their  charge  to  form  auxiliary  societies  in  every 
circuit  and  station,  and  send  to  the  general  depository 
in  New- York  for  their  books ;  and  such  were  the  ze^l 
and  unanimity  with  which  they  entered  into  this  work, 
that  at  the  Urst  annual  meeting  of  the  society  there 
were  reported  2'51  auxUiary  societies,  1,025  schools, 
2,048  superintendents,  10,290  teachers,  and  63,240 
scholars,  besides  about  2,000  managers  and  visitors. 
Never,  therefore,  did  an  institution  go  into  operation 
under  more  favorable  circumstances,  or  was  hailed  with 
a  more  universal  joy,  than  the  Sunday  School  Union 
of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church. 

Our  separation,  however,  from  the  general  union, 
and  the  establishment  of  a  distinct  organization,  pro- 
voked no  little  opposition  from  some  quarters,  and  led 
the  managers  into  an  investigation  of  the  origin  of  Sun- 
day schools,  both  in  Europe  and  America,  and  the  facts 
elicited  were  spread  before  the  community  in  their  first 
annual  report.     By  this  it  appeared,  as  before  stated, 
that  although  Mr.  Raikes  might  have  been  th6  first  to 
organize  regular  sabbath  schools  in  England,  yet  Mr. 
Wesley  was  among  the  first  to  patronize  them,  and  the 
very  first  to  furnish  teachers  who  gave  their  services 
gratuitously ;    that  even  the  British  and  Foreign  Bible 
Society  originated  from  the  exertions  of  a  Methodist 
preacher  who  had  been  laboring  in  the  sabbath  school 
cause  in  Wales ;  and  that  in  America  they  had  been 
taught  among  the  Methodists,  amidst  storms  of  reproach 
and  persecution,  long  before  they  were  ever  thought  of 
by  other  denominations.     These  facts  were  amply  sup- 
ported  by  irrefutable  testimony,   and    they  therefore 
served  to  put  the  question  at  rest  respecting  the  origin 

3 


346 


A   HISTORY  OF   THE 


[1827. 


r  ? 


and  permanent  establishment  of  sabbath  schools  in 
England,  and  their  subsequent  progress  in  this  country.* 
That  the  formation  of  this  society  has  had  a  most 
happy  effect  upon  the  interests  of  the  rising  generation, 
particularly  those  under  the  influence  of  our  own  deno- 
mination, there  can  be  no  doubt.  As  many  of  our 
people  were  not  pleased  with  the  movements  of  the 
American  Union,  and  some  who  were  connected  with  it 
felt  dissatisfied  in  that  relation,  they  had  not  entered  so 
heartily  nor  so  generally  as  was  desirable  into  the  work 
of  sabbath  school  instruction ;  but  now,  every  objection 
arising  from  these  sources  being  removed,  a  general 
and  almost  simultaneous  action  in  favor  of  this  important 
cause  commenced  throughout  our  ranks,  and  it  has 
continued  steadily  increasing  to  the  present  time,  exert- 
ing a  hallowing  influence  upon  all  who  come  under  its 
control  and  direction.    . 

And  we  rejoice  to  know  that  the  American  Union,  as 
well  as  those  existing  separately  among  other  denotni- 
nations.  has  exerted,  and  is  still  exerting,  a  similar  in- 
fluence on  all  who  come  within  the  sphere  of  its  and 
their  operations.  Let  them  be  conducted  in  the  fear  of 
God,  under  the  superintendence  of  men  and  women 
who  enjoy  and  exemplify  experimental  and  practical 
godliness,  and  they  shall  form  an  effectual  barrier 
against  the  overflowings  of  infidelity  and  its  kindred 
errors  and  vices,  and  continue  as  a  lofty  beacon  to  di- 
rect the  youthful  mind  into  the  channel  of  gospel  truth 
and  holiness.  The  mere  question  of  their  origin,  how- 
ever honorable  it  may  be  to  their  originator,  is  l(^t 
amidst  the  blaze  of  glory  which  shall  surround  the 
churches  by  the  conscientious  labors  of  those  who  have 

♦  See  Methodist  Magazine  for  1828,  p.  349. 
3 


1827.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


347 


conducted  and  shall  continue  to  conduct  them  forward 
in  the  spirit  of  Him  who  said,  "  Suffer  little  children  to 
come  unto  me,  and  forbid  them  not,  for  of  such  is  the 
kingdom  of  God,"  and  who  "  out  of  the  mouths  of  babes 
and  sucklings  hath  perfected  praise."  The  high  appro- 
bation of  God  is  to  be  prized  above  a  thousand  wreaths 
of  mere  human  laurels.  The  latter  will  fade  and  die, 
while  the  former  will  cause  the  individual  on  whom  it 
fells  to  bloom  in  immortal  vigor  around  the  throne 
above.  Instead,  therefore,  of  contending  about  the  fact 
to  whom  the  honor  belongs  of  beginning  this  mighty 
machinery  which  is  performing  such  wonders  of  mercy 
to  the  rising  generation,  let  us  bless  God  for  raising  up 
such  a  man  as  Raikes,  for  such  a  powerful  patron  as 
Wesley,  and  for  inspiring  so  many  of  his  servants  to 
exert  their  strength  to  perpetuate  this  means  of  doing 
good  from  one  generation  to  another. 

The  Cherokee  mission,  within  the  bounds  of  the 
Tennessee  conference,  was  extending  its  influence 
among  that  nation  with  encouraging  success.  Last 
year  there  were  four  missionaries  appointed  to  labor 
here,  who  formed  regular  circuits,  and  divided  the  na- 
tive converts,  now  consisting  of  about  four  hundred,  into 
chsse<i,  and  furnished  them  with  the  ordinances  of  the 
gospel.  A  native  preacher,  by  the  name  of  Turtle 
Fields,  had  been  raised  up,  who  became  eminently  use- 
ful to  his  brethren,  as  he  could  speak  to  them  in  their 
own  language  of  the  "  wonderful  works  of  God." 

Though  it  was  the  practice  of  all  our  missionaries 
who  were  sent  among  the  aboriginal  tribes,  first  of  all 
to  preach  to  them  the  gospel  of  Christ,  yet  when  they 
had  embraced  it,  and  became  reformed  in  heart  and  life, 
they  generally  forsook  their  former  mode  of  living,  and 


348 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


15. 


[1827 

entered  upon  the  arts  of  civilized  man.  Indeed,  this 
was  tlie  secret  of  our  success.  Every  attempt  which 
had  been  made  to  reform  the  savF""es  of  our  wilder- 
nesses, 'y  introducing  the  arts  of  civilization J?r5^,  and 
by  initiating  them  into  the  knowledge  of  letters  before 
they  were  converted  to  Christianity,  has  failed  of  suc- 
cess. Instead  of  pursuing  this  round-about  method  to 
bring  them  to  the  knowledge  of  God  and  of  his  Son 
Jesus  Christ,  our  missionaries  have  addressed  them- 
selves directly  to  their  hearts,  recited  to  them  the  simple 
narrative  ^f  the  life,  the  sufferings,  the  death,  and  the 
resurrection  of  Jesus  Christ,  and  impressed  upon  their 
minds  the  grand  truth,  that  all  this  vus  for  them,  and 
that,  in  believing  it  heartily,  even  they  should  be  "  saved 
from  their  sins."  This  method,  and  this  only,  has 
taken  effect.  A  believing  knowledge  of  the  love  of  God 
in  Ciirist  Jesus  has  melted  them  into  tenderness ;  and 
the  light  of  divine  truth,  thus  shining  upon  their  hearts, 
has  revealed  to  them  their  wretchedness  as  sinners,  and 
brought  them  as  humble  penitents  to  the  foot  of  the 
cross,  where  they  have  waited  in  humble  supplication 
until  Christ  made  them  free.  And  then,  after  being 
thus  liberated  from  the  bondage  of  sin,  and  brought 
into  the  liberties  of  the  gospel,  they  have  been  con- 
ducted with  the  utmost  ease  to  the  practice  of  the  do- 
mestic arts,  and  to  all  the  usages  of  civilized  life. 

This  was  the  case  with  these  converted  Cherokees 
and  others.  "  The  traveler,"  says  the  report  of  the 
conunittee  of  the  Tennessee  conference  for  this  year, 
"  through  theii  settlements,  observing  cottages  erecting, 
reji:iilar  towns  building,  farms  cultivated,  the  sabbath 
regularly  observed,  and  almost  an  entire  change  in  the 
character  and  pursuits  of  the  people,  is  ready  to  ask, 
3 


1827.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


349 


with  surprise,  Whence  this  change?  The  answer  is, 
The  Lord  Jesus,  in  answer  to  the  prayers  of  thousands 
of  his  people,  is  receiving  the  accomplishment  of  the 
promise,  Iivillgive  thee  the  heathen  for  thine  inhe- 
ritance. Here  is  a  nation  at  our  door,  our  neighbors," 
(once)  "remarkable  for  their  ferocity  and  ignorance, 
now  giving  the  most  striking  evidence  of  the  utility  of 
missionary  exertions."  Two  houses  of  worship  had 
been  erected,  one  of  which,  having  been  consumed  by 
fire,  was  rebuilt  this  year  by  the  natives  themselves, 
without  any  expense  to  the  mission. 

For  the  benefit  of  the  youth  schools  were  established, 
and  the  children  soon  gave  evidence  of  their  capacity 
and  willingness  to  learn,  two  of  whom  gave  promise 
of  usefulness  as  preachers  of  the  gospel  to  their  own 
nation.     These  were  placed  under  the  special  care  of 
the  Rev.  William  M'Mahon,  the  superintendent  of  the 
mission.     So  evident  was  the  change  which  had  been 
wrought  in  the  hearts  and  lives  of  these  people,  that 
even  those  who  had  no  interest  in  the  mission  were 
constrained  to  acknowledge   the  hand   of  God.     So 
rapidly,  ind'^ed,  did  the  work  spread,  that  in  1828  the 
number  of  converted  natives  had  increased  to  eight 
hundred,  and  seven  missionaries  were  employed  in  that 
interesting  field  of  labor,  including  Turtle  Fields,  who 
was  now  eminently  distinguished  for  his  deep  piety, 
and  diligence  in  promoting  the  interests  of  the  mission. 
The  white  missionaries  were  also  greatly  assisted  by 
aiiother  converted  Cherokee,  a  young  man  of  promising 
talents  and  piety,  who  acted  as  an  interpreter  to  the 
circuit  preacher:. 

A  new  mission  was  begun  this  year  among  another 
branch  of  the  Missiasaugas,  who  resided  on  Snake  and 

3 


350 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


I  ■ 


[1827. 

Yellow  Head  Islands,  in  Lake  Simcoe,  Upper  Canada. 
The  whole  body  of  Indians  who  resided  here  consisted 
of  six  hundred,  the  largest  body  of  any  who  sopke  the 
Chippeway  language  this  side  of  Lake  Huron.  Some 
of  these,  hearing  a  discourse  from  one  of  our  preachers, 
became  deeply  impressed  with  the  leading  truths  of 
Christianity,  and  expressed  an  earnest  desire  to  have  a 
missionary  sent  to  instruct  them.  Accordingly  some 
benevolent  members  of  our  Church  went  and  established 
a  sabbath  school  among  them.  By  this  simple  means 
more  than  forty  were  reclaimed  from  their  pagan  super- 
stitions. Such  was  the  success  of  this  mission,  after 
being  supplied  with  a  regular  r  missionary,  that  in  1829 
there  were  four  hundred  and  twenty-nine  under  reli- 
gious instruction,  three  hundred  and  fifty  of  whom  were 
orderly  members  of  the  Church ;  one  hundred  of  their 
children  were  taught  in  two  separate  schools,  by  a  male 
and  female  teacher.  A  school-house  and  parsonage 
were  built  on  Snake  Island,  and  a  mission-house  on 
Yellow  Head  Island,  and  the  converts  were  gradually 
brouglit  to  attend  to  agricultural  and  domestic  duties. 

The  other  aboriginal  missions,  heretofore  mentioned, 
were  still  improving  in  religion  and  morals,  as  well  as 
in  the  arts  of  civilized  life,  and  great  was  the  interest 
manifested  by  the  Christian  church  in  their  behalf. 
This  year,  however,  the  Wyandot  mission  suffered  a 
great  loss  in  the  death  of  Betiveenthe-loffs,  one  of  their 
most  eminent  chiefs,  and  an  eloquent  and  able  advocate 
of  Christianity.  And  as  he  was  a  chief  man  amoiitf 
them,  and,  after  his  conversion,  had  exerted  a  powerful 
iniluence  in  favor  of  the  missioti,  it  is  presumed  that  the 
reader  will  be  pleased  with  the  following  particulars  of 
his  life  and  death,  which  the  author  of  the  History  of 


[1827. 

r  Canada. 
)  consisted 
sopke  the 
n.    Some 
preachers, 
truths  of 
to  have  a 
igly  some 
jstabhshed 
pie  means 
gan  super- 
ision,  after 
It  in  1829 
under  reli- 
/hom  were 
;d  of  their 
by  a  male 
parsonage 
i-house  on 
gradually 
c  duties, 
mentioned, 
as  well  as 
he  interest 
eir  behalf, 
suffered  a 
)ne  of  their 
le  advocate 
lan  amoutf 
a  powerfu' 
led  that  the 
.rticulars  of 
History  of 


1827.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  351 

the  Missions  under  the  care  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church  prepared  for  and  published  in  that  work. 

"He  was  bom,  it  is  said,  in  the  neighborhood  of  Lower 
Sandusky,  about  the  year  1780.*  His  father  was  of  the 
fc»eneca  and  his  mother  a  Wyandot  of  the  Bear  tribe,  from 
whom  he  derived  his  name,  Between-the-logs,  the  name 
which  they  give  to  a  bear,  signifying  to  crouch  between  the 
logs  because  this  animal,  under  peculiar  circumstances, 
Itesdoum  between  logs;  hence  the  name  Between-the-logs, 
a  lueral  translation  of  the  Bear  tribe,  was  a  distinctive  ap- 
pellation  of  the  tribe  to  which  he  belonged,  and  of  which 
he  became  a  chief. 

"As  ho  acted  a  conspicuous  part  in  the  nation,  and 
hnally  became  very  eminently  useful  in  the  cause  of  Chris- 
tianity,  the  following  brief  account  of  his  life  and  death 
will  doubtless  be  acceptable  to  the  reader.     When  about 
nine  years  of  age  his  father  and  mother  separated,  and 
Bctween-the-Iogs  remained  with  his  father  until  the  death 
0    the  latter,  when  he  returned  to  his  mother  amoni?  the 
Wyandots.     Soon  after  this  he  joined  the  Indian  warriors 
wlio  were  defeated  by  General  Wayne.     His  prompt  obe- 
diencc  to  the  chief,  his  enterprising  disposition,  and  the 
laithlul  discharge  of  his  duties,  called  him  into  public  no- 
tico,  and  finally  raised  him  to  be  a  chief  of  the  nation  • 
and  the  soundness  of  his  judgment,  his  good  memory,  and 
ills  great  powers  of  eloquence,  procured  for  him  the  office 
0    chief  speaker,  and  the  confidential  adviser  of  the  head 
chief. 

"  When  about  twenty.fivo  years  of  age,  ho  was  sent  to 
ascertain  the  doctrines  and  pretensions  of  a  reputed  Seneca 
prophet,  whose  imposture  he  soon  detected,  and  some 
years  after  he  went  on  a  similar  errand  to  a  noted  Shaw- 

ia  13""  '^'V^*^^^  '»  the  published  account  of  his  life;  but  it 
.,,^^  „3^^  y^^jj  yyj-jj  _„j^_^.j^_^^  Bttriier. 


352 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1827. 


nee  prophet,  a  brother  of  the  famous  Tecumseh,  with 
whom  he  stayed  nearly  a  yeai ;  and  being  fully  convinced 
himself,  he  was  enabled  to  convince  others,  that  their 
pretensions  to  the  spirit  of  prophecy  were  all  a  deception. 

"  At  the  commencement  of  hostilities  between  this 
country  and  Great  Britain,  in  1812,  in  company  with  the 
head  chief  of  the  nation,  he  attended  a  great  council  of 
the  northern  Indians,  collected  to  deliberate  on  the  ques- 
tion whether  they  should  join  the  British  against  the 
Americans.  Here,  although  powerfully  opposed,  and 
even  threatened  with  death  if  he  did  not  join  them, 
Between-the-logs  utterly  refused  to  take  up  arms  against 
his  American  brethren,  and  exerted  all  his  powers  to 
dissuade  the  Wyandots  from  involving  themselves  in  this 
quarrel.  Soon  after,  he  and  the  majority  of  the  warriors 
belonging  to  the  Wyandots  joined  the  American  standard, 
and  accompanied  General  Harrison  in  his  invasion  of 
Upper  Canada.  At  the  conclusion  of  the  war  he  settled 
with  his  brother  at  Upper  Sandusky,  and,  like  most  of  the 
savages,  indulged  himself  in  intemperance.  In  one  of 
his  fits  of  intoxication  he  unfortunately  murdered  his 
wife ;  but,  on  coming  to  himself,  the  recollection  of  this 
horrid  deed  maoe  such  an  impression  on  his  mind,  that  he 
almost  entirely  abandoned  the  use  of  ardent  spirits  ever 
afterward. 

"In  1817  Between-the-logs  had  an  opportunity  of  dis- 
playing his  love  of  justice  in  behalf  of  his  nation.  The 
Wyandots  being  persuaded  by  intriguing  men  to  sign  a 
treaty  for  the  sale  of  their  lands,  contrary  to  his  earnest 
expostulations,  he,  in  company  with  some  others,  under- 
took a  journey  to  Washington  on  their  own  responsibility, 
without  consulting  any  one.  When  introduced  to  the 
secretary  of  war,  the  secretary  observed  to  them  tliat  he 
had  received  no  notice  of  their  coming  from  any  of  the 


T«   ♦!,:-.    n^* .ii._    1 i;_j 


1827.]  BETHODMT   EPISCOPAL   CHORCH.  353 

With  noWe  freedom.  'We  got  up  and  came  of  ourselve. 
-we  believed  the  great  road  was  free  to  us.'  He  JZ 
the  cause  of  the  Indians  with  such  forcible  eLencI 
before  the  heads  of  departments  at  Washington,  Z2Z 

renZd  t  IIT' "?  ""'"'°"'  ""'  S'^P^L  "nd  the  aid  he 
rendered  to  the  m.ss,onar,es  to  extend  its  influence  among 
his  people,  an  account  has  already  been  given.     HUm- 
ders tanding  bemg  enlightened  Ay  divi„e%r„th.  and  Z 
hear,  moved  with  compassion  for  the  salvation  of  wl 
countrymen    he  exerted  all  his  powers  to  bring  themt 
he  knowledge  of  the  truth ;  and  such  was  the  success  of 
ns  efforjs,  that  his  brethren  gave  him  license,  firs,  "ex 
or,,  and  ,he„  ,„  preach.    Some  of  his  speeches  b!for, 
.he  Ohio  conference,  which  he  attended  several  times 
d.d  honor  equally  to  his  head  and  heart,  and  poweS 
enhsted  the  feelings  of  the  conference  i„  behTlf  of  Ae 
mission.  " 

;  In  the  year  1826,  he  and  Mononcue  accompanied  Mr 
Fmley  on  a  visit  from  Sandusky  to  New-York,  where  they 
attended  several  meetings,  and  among  others  the  anniver- 
sary  of  the  Female  Missionary  Society  of  New-York 
Here  Bctween-the-logs  spoke  with  great  fire  and  anima^ 
tion,  relating  his  own  experience  of  divine  things,  and 
gave  a  brief  narrative  of  the  work  of  God  among  his  peo- 
plo.     Though  he  addressed  the  audience  through  an  inter- 
proter  who  spoke  the  English  language  but  imperfectly, 
yet  his  speech  had  a  powerful  effect  upon  those  who 
heard  him.     His  voice  was  musical,  his  gestures  graceful, 
signihc^n  .  and  dignified,  and  his  whole  demeanor  bespoke 
a  soul  full  of  lofty  ideas  and  full  of  God.     On  one  occaVion 
he  remarked,  that  when  at  home  he  had  been  accu.comed 
to  be  addressed  by  his  brethren,  but  that  since  he  had 
-m,.  nere  he  hau  ncara  noifung  that  he  understood,  and 

23  Q 


§^  4   HilSTOSLY   OF  TH8  [1837. 

»d(]e(l,  ♦  I  wonder  if  the  people  understand  one  another,  for 
I  see  but  little  eflfect  produced  by  what  is  said.'  After  a 
few  words  spoken  in  reply  to  this  remark,  by  way  of  ex- 
planation and  apology,  he  kneeled  down  and  offered  a 
most  fervent  prayer  to  Almighty  God.  In  this  journey,  as 
they  passed  through  the  country,  they  visited  Phiiadel- 
phia,  Baltimore,  and  several  of  the  intervening  villages, 
and  held  meetings,  and  took  up  collections  for  the  benefit 
of  the  mission.  This  tended  to  excite  a  missionary  spirit 
among  the  people,  and  everywhere  Between-the-logs  was 
hailed  as  a  monument  of  divine  mercy  and  grace,  and  as 
a  powerful  advocate  for  the  cause  of  Christianity ;  and  he, 
together  with  those  who  accompanied  him,  left  a  most 
favorable  impression  behind  them  of  the  good  effects  of 
the  gospel  on  the  savage  mind  and  heart. 

"  It  was  very  evident  to  all  who  beheld  him  that  ho 
could  not  long  continue  an  inhabitant  of  this  world.    Al- 
ready the  consumption  was  making  fearful  inroads  upon 
his  constitution,  and  his  continual  labors  in  the  gospel 
contributed  to  hasten  its  progress  to  its  fatal  termination. 
Very  soon  after  his  return  to  his  nation  he  was  confined 
to  his  bed.     Being  asked  respecting  the  foundation  of  his 
hope,  he  replied,  •  It  is  in  the  mercy  of  God  in  Christ.' 
'  I  asked  him,'  says  Mr.  Gilruth,  who  was  at  this  time  the 
missionary,  ♦  of  his  evidence  ;'  he  said,  '  It  is  the  comfort 
of  the  Spirit.'     ♦  I  asked  him  if  he  was  afraid  to  die  ;'  he 
said,  *  I  am  not.'     *  Are  you  resigned  to  go  ?'     Ho  replied, 
♦  I  have  felt  some  desires  of  the  world,  but  they  are  all 
gone,  and  I  now  feel  willhig  to  die  or  live,  as  God  s(h^s 
best.'     The  day  before  he  died  he  was  visited  by  Mr. 
Finley,  to  whom  he  expressed  his  imahaken  confidence  in 
God,  and  a  firm  hope,  through  Jesus  Christ,  of  eternal 
life.     He  finally  died  in  peace,  leaving  his  nation  to  mourn 
the  loss  of  a  chief  and  a  minister  of  Jesus  Christ  to  whom 


1827.]  METH0D18T    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  355 

they  felt  thcMnsolves  much  indebted  for  his  many  exertions, 
both  for  their  temporal  and  spiritual  prosperity." 

Some  new  settlements  in  irp|)er  Canadu,  which  had 
not  hitheito  l)een  supplied  with  the  word  of  life,  were 
this  year  visited  hy  the  Rev.  George  Pool,  as  a  mission- 
ary; these  formed  the  Richmond  mission;  and 
Mr.  Poole  succeeded  in  procuring  twelve  preaching 
i)laces,  and  two  hundred  Church  memljers  were  rr!'- 
turned  on  the  Minutes  for  the  next  year. 

The  work  of  God  in  the  older  circuits  and  stations 
was  this  year  very  generally  in  a  prosj>erou8  state. 
Among  otiier  places  which  had  Iwen  visited  with  tht 
reviving  influences  of  God's  Spirit,  the  city  of  New- 
York  shared  in  a  considerable  degree.     Last  year  s 
new  church  had  been  erected  in  Willett-street,  which 
was  dedicated  to  the  service  of  Almighty  Gotl  on  May 
the  7th  by  Bishop  M'Kendree,  and  was  now  well  filled 
with  attentive  hearers.     The  congregation  in  this  place 
had  been  raised  chiefly  by  the  labors  of  local  preachers, 
assisted  occasionally  by  the  preachers  stationed  in  New- 
York,  who  held  their  meetings  in  a  private  room,  then 
in  a  school-room,  when  in  1819  they  occupied  a  mis- 
sion-house in  Hroome-street,  which  had  been  built  by 
tlic  mission  board  of  the  Presbyterian  C^hurch,  for  the 
purpose  of  instructing  profligate  females ;  bu   this  plan 
not  succeeding  according  to  the  benevolent  design  of  its 
patrons,  the  house  was  rented  to  our  trustees,  and  the 
appointment  was  taken  into  the  regular  plan,  and  sup- 
plied by  the  stationed  preachers. 

God  honored  this  place  by  giving  sanction  to  the  la- 
bors of  his  servants ;  and  in  1823  a  gracious  work  com- 
inenced,  which  had  continued  with  more  or  less  success 

until   fn*»  ♦irn«  nf  nrlta/.K    ..r«    r.'iT—   -t '-  c*'  •< 

"  ^rtiiiLii  «c  now  spuaii.     oince  ine  new 

3 


356 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1827 


house  had  been  occupied  the  work  of  reformation  had 
much  increased,  so  that  about  one  hundred  and  twenty 
hud  been  added  to  the  churcli  from  the  month  of  June 
to  February.  Gracious  seasons  of  refreshing  were  also 
l>lessing  the  other  churches  in  the  city  during  the  year, 
so  that  about  three  hundred  and  sixty  were  added  to 
the  Church,  including  white  and  colored. 

It  seems  that  very  considerable  accessions  had  been 
made  to  the  church  in  the  city  of  New-Haven  during 
the  years  of  182(3  and  1827,  under  the  labors  of  the 
Rev.  Heman  Bangs;  and  as  this  is  a  very  impoitant 
position  in  the  state  of  Connecticut,  perhaps  a  short 
narrative  of  the  work  in  this  place  may  not  be  unac- 
ceptable to  the  reader.     New-Haven,  indeed,  may  be 
considered  tlie  Athens  of  this  part  of  New-England, 
beiiii?  delightfully  situated  at  the  head  of  a  convenient 
harbor,  on  a  sandy  plain,  just  at  the  termination  of 
those  higli  bluffs  called  »  East  and  West  Rocks,"  which 
rise  to  the  height  of  about  four  hundred  feet,  from  tlie 
summit  of  which  the  admirer  of  natural  scenery,  beau- 
tified by  the  works  of  art,  moy  liave  an  extensive  and 
cliarming  view  of  the  surrounding  country,  the  city,  the 
harbor,  and  the  neighboring  villages.      Here,  amidst 
artificial  groves,  which  render  New-Haven  one  of  the 
most  rural  and  pleasant  cities  on  the  continent,  Yale 
College  rears  its  stately  buildings,  together  with  churches 
and  other  public  as  well  as  private  edifices. 

We  have  already  seen  that  the  Rev.  Jesse  Lee,  as 
early  as  1789,  visited  this  place ;  hut  the  first  class  was 
formed  by  the  Rev.  Daniel  Ostrander,  wlio  entered  the 
traveling  ministry  in  1793,  and  has  continued  from 
that  time  to  this  in  the  itinerant  field.  This  was  in 
the  year  1795:    and  William  Thacher  and  Peinber 


1827.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHDkcH.  357 

Jocelyn  were  among  the  first  who  joined  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  in  New-Haven ;  the  former  ioiriod 
the  travehng  connection  in  1797,  and  has  continued  a 
faithful  laborer  to  this  day;  and  the  latter  became  a 
local  preacher,  and  continued,  amidst  much  opposition,  in 
the  early  days  of  Methodism,  faithful  until  death.     The 
first  heralds  of  the  cross  who  visited  New-Haven  found 
a  resting-place  ii:  the  house  of  Mr.  Giltert,  who,  thouL^i 
dead,  yet  speaketh  in  his  children  and  grand-children, 
who  are  following  the  steps  of  their  sire  in  the  way  to 
heaven,  being  members  of  the  same  Church  of  which 
he  became  an  early  member  and  supporter. 

But  though  Methodism  had  this  early  beginning  in 
New-Haven,  the  number  of  its  disciples  was  few,  and 
they  remained  in  a  feeble  state  until  they  were  detached 
fmm  the  circuit  and  organized  as  a  separate  station  in 
1813,  and  even  for  some  years  after  their  increase  was 
but  small.     In  the  succeeding  year  the  Rev.  Gad  Smith 
a  young  preacher  of  good  talents,  remarkable  for  tho' 
purity  of  his  mind,  great  simplicity  of  intention,  and 
idehty  in  his  work,  was  stationed  in  New-Haven,  and 
he  brought  the  members  into  gospel  order,  built  them 
up  in  love,  and  laid  a  foundation  for  their  future  pros- 
per ly.     Such  a  laborer,  indeed,  is  rarely  found-so 
prudent,  so  entirely  devoted  to  his  work,  and  so  indefa- 
tigable in  his  endeavors  to  do  good  to  others.     But 
notwithstanding  his  pious  labors  and  prudent  conduct,' 
the  society  did  not  rise  into  much  strength  until  thev 
succeeded,  in  I82I  and  1822,  by  the  laudable  exertions 
of  the  Rev.  William  Thacher,  in  building  them  a  com- 
moflious  house  of  worship,  which  was  completed  and 
dedicated  to  God  in  the  spring  of  1822,  near  the  termi- 
nation of  Mr..  Thacher's  labors.     During  the  three 

3 


358 


A    HISTORY   OF    THE 


[1827. 


I 


I 


years,  namely,  from  1819  to  1822,  the  society  had  in- 
creased from  thirty-six  whites  and  thirty-five  colored  to 
two  hundred  whites  and  five  colored  ;*  and  they  had 
steadily  persevered,  enlarging  their  borders  and  extend- 
ing their  influence,  until  this  year  iL«  y  i)\;mbered  two 
hundred  and  sixteen  whites  and  two  colored.  They 
had  been  blessed  with  several  powerful  revivals,  and  a 
considerable  accession  of  members,  but  the  constant 
emigration  to  the  west  had  prevented  a  proportionate 
increase  to  their  membership. 

Revivals  of  religion  were  quite  prevalent  this  year  in 
various  places ;  but  as  I  have  heretofore  so  fully  nar- 
rated the  progress  of  the  work,  particularly  its  com- 
mencement in  any  given  place,  it  is  judged  inexpedient 
to  enter  into  further  details  in  this  place.  The  results 
may  be  seen  by  a  reference  to  the  general  increase. 

An  academy  had  been  commenceJ  at  Readfield,  un- 
der the  patronage  of  the  Maine  conference,  with  which 
manual  labor  was  connected,  embracing  agricultural 
and  mechanical  arts.  A  benevolent  individual  conse- 
crated a  portion  of  his  wealth,  ten  thousand  dollars,  to- 
ward the  founding  of  this  institution,  and  it  received 
the  sanction  of  the  state  by  an  act  of  incorporation, 
under  the  title  of  "  The  Maine  Wesleyan  Seminary." 
Here,  by  means  of  manual  labor,  the  physical  as  well 
as  mental  and  moral  powers  of  the  student  are  trained 
to  industry,  and  thus  that  sickly  constitution,  so  often 
the  effect  of  severe  study  in  youth,  is  prevented,  and 
the  "  piercing  wit  and  active  limb"  become  mutual  aids 
to  each  other.     In  addition  to  a  thorough  Engliyh  edu- 

♦  The  reason  of  this  decrease  of  colored  menibers  is,  that 
that  they  had  joined  the  secession  which  has  been  before 
noticed. 
3 


1827.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


350 


cation,  a  regular  classical  course  is  pursued,  by  which 
the  student  is  fitted  to  enter  college,  or  upon  the  more 
active  duties  ot  life. 

Sixty-three  had  located,  seventy-seven  returned  su- 
pernumerary,   eighty-seven    superannuated,  one  had 
withdrawn,  and  six  had  b^en  expeUed.     I'he  following 
had  died  .—Archibald  M'Elroy,  John  Walker,  James 
R.  Reach,  Arthur  JWClure,  Ellison  Taylor,  Philip 
Bruce,  James  Smith,  Johti  Collins,  John  Creamer, 
Seth  Crowell,  John  Shaw,  and  Freeborn  Garrettson. 
In  writing  some  of  these  names,  we  can  hardly  avoid 
the  reflection,  how  fast,  one  after  another,  the  aged 
veterans  of  Methodism,  who  saw  it  in  its  first  glory,  and 
had  contributed  so  much,  by  their  labors  and  sacrifices, 
to  lay  the  foundation  for  its  future  prosperity,  were  re- 
moved from  the  eartlily  to  the  heavenly  tabernacle. 
Had  I  the  time,  how  I  should  delight  to  linger  along 
their  path,  mark  their  progress,  often  amidst  storms  of 
persecution,  tears  of  sorrow,  mingled  indeed  with  shouts 
of  triumph,  while  they  held  up  the  banner  of  the  cross 
to  the  hstening  multitudes  who  hung  on  their  lips  for 
instruction  !     Those,  indeed,  were  the  chivalrous  days 
of  Methodism,  when  Bruce  and  Garrettson,  often  side 
by  side,  and  then  again  in  separate  and  distant  fields 
of  action,  were  fighting  the  battles  of  their  Lord,  ahnost 
single  handed,  and  crying,  with  a  loud  and  distinct 
voice,  to  sinners  to  repent  and  give  glory  to  God.    Such 
were  the  men,  and  such  their  work,  that  their  names 
will  be  transmitted  to  posterity,  su  rounded  with  that 
halo  of  glory  which  can  be  won  only  by  those  who 
have  devoted  themselves  to  so  noble  a  work  with  such  a 
disinterested  zeal  as  shall  put  to  silence  that  caviling 
criticism  which  would  transmute  a  human  infirmity 

9 


860 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1827. 


hi- 


into  a  moral  delinquency,  and  bury  real  excellence  be- 
neath the  rubbish  of  those  imperfections  which  are 
inseparable  from  human  beings.  For  such  cavilings 
we  have  10  fellowship.  But  for  the  stem  and  uncom- 
promising virtues  v;hich  adorned  and  fortified  the  souls 
of  those  devoted  men  of  God,  several  of  whose  names, 
accompanied  with  sketches  of  their  labors  and  charac- 
ters, have  already  been  recorded,  who  first  stood  on  the 
walls  of  our  Zion,  a  veneration  is  felt  which  it  is  difii- 
cult  either  to  repress  or  express.  Who  does  not  feel  the 
kindlings  of  gratitude  to  God  for  raising  up  such  men, 
qualifying  them  for  their  work,  directing  and  sustaining 
them  in  its  performance,  and  then  taking  them  to  their 
final  reward  ? 

We  trace  Philip  Bruce  back  to  the  persecuted  Hu- 
guenots, whose  ancestors  fled  to  this  country  to  avoid 
the  fury  of  Louis  XIV.  and  his  bigoted  counsellors,  who 
drove  those  devoted  men  from  the  kingdom  merely  be- 
cause they  would  not  bow  the  knee  to  a  wafer  god, 
and  acknowledge  the  pope  as  the  infallible  head  of  the 
church.  His  ancestors  settled  in  North  Carolina,  where 
Philip  was  born,*  and  in  early  life,  by  the  assiduity  of 
a  pious  mother,  he  was  taught  the  fear  of  God,  experi- 
enced a  change  of  heart,  and,  with  her,  connected  him- 
self with  the  Methodist  societies.  In  1781,  three  years 
before  the  organization  of  our  Church,  he  entered  the 
itinerant  <ield  of  gospel  labor,  in  which  he  continued 
faithful  until  the  day  of  his  death.  For  forty-Jive  years 
did  he  stand  as  a  sentinel  on  the  walls  of  our  Zion, 
giving  a  faithful  warning,  to  all  who  came  within  the 

♦  It  is  much  regretted  that  the  day  and  year  of  his  birth, 
and  his  age  at  the  time  of  his  death,  are  not  given  in  his 
memoir. 
3 


1827.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  361 

sound  of  his  voice,  of  the  dangers  of  a  life  of  sin,  and 
encouraging  those  who  were  attempting  to  "flee  the 
wrath  to  come,"  to  seek  for  shelter  under  the  winff 
of  God's  mercy.     During  the  whole  of  this  time,  some 
periods  of  which  were  seasons  of  no  little  peril  and  suf- 
fering, Philip  Bruce  kept  his  eye  fixed  steadily  upon  the 
"mark  of  the  prize  of  his  high  calling,"  nor  deviated 
from  the  straightforward  path,  until  he  happily  reached 
the  goal  for  which  he  run.     He  traveled  extensively  on 
various  circuits,  presided  over  several  districts,  and  was 
sometimes  spoken  of  as  a  suitable  person  to  fill  the  office 
of  a  superintendent ;  and  wherever  he  traveled,  or  what- 
ever station  he  filled,  he  won  the  confidence  of  his  bre- 
thren by  the  honest  purpose  of  his  heart,  the  blameless- 
ness  of  his  life,  and  by  the  ability  and  zeal  with  which 
he  discharged  his  high  and  holy  duties. 

He  was  not  naturally  fluent  as  a  speaker.  Consi- 
dered, therefore,  simply  as  a  pulpit  orator,  he  had  many 
defects,  often  hesitating,  as  though  he  hardly  knew 
how  to  give  utterance  to  his  thoughts.  Yet  the  evident 
sincerity  of  his  heart,  manifested  by  the  purity  of  his 
hfe,  his  knowledge  of  the  sacred  Scriptures,  his  sound 
understanding,  and  prudence  of  conduct,  gave  weight 
to  his  words,  and  commanded  attention  and  respect. 

If  I  were  to  select  any  traits  of  character,  by  which 
to  distinguish  him  among  others,  I  should  say  they 
were  rp,eekness  and  diffidence.  These  seemed  to  shine 
through  all  his  actions,  to  sit  prominently  on  his  coun- 
tenance, and  to  dictate  and  guide  him  in  all  he  said  and 
did.  He  thus  imbibed  the  sacred  lesson  taught  by  his 
Lord  and  Master,  «  Learn  of  me,  for  I  am  meek  and 
lowly  of  heart." 

In  his  public  addresses  he  was  wont  to  interrupt  the 

3 


363 


A   HISTORY  OF   THE 


[1 827' 


reo^ular  chain  of  discourse  by  putting  up  a  fervent  eja- 
culation to  God  for  divine  aid,  and  for  a  blessing  u|K)n 
his  labors— a  practice  which  was  very  common  among 
the  older  Methodist  preachers  arising,  no  doubt,  from  a 
feeling  sense  of  their  dependence  on  God  for  help. 

The  late  Dr.  William  Phoibus,  speaking  of  Philip 
Bruce,  remarked,  that  once,  wJiile  hearing  him  preach, 
he  began  to  hesitate,  as  if  at  a  loss  what  to  say  next, 
and  then  broke  forth  in  prayer,  and  finally  said  to  the 
people,  "  I  beg  of  you  lo  pray  for  me,  for  you  know  that 
I  cannot  preach  unless  assisted  from  above."     This 
broke  him  loose  from  his  embarrassment,  and  he  went 
on  with  his  discourse,  to  the  astonishment  of  all  present. 
At  other  times  there  was  an  air  of  pleasantness— not 
triflinrr—avkmcr,  apparently,  from  the  buoyancy  of  his 
..piritsj  which  made  him  extremely  agreeable  to  those 
intimately  acquainted  with  him,  but  which  sometimes 
presented  him  unfavorably  to  others.     With  him,  how- 
ever, all  was  sincerity,  aiming  constantly  to  benefit  his 
fellow-men  by  the  best  means  he  could  select. 

In  1817,  with  much  reluctance,  as  though  unwilling 
to  acknowledge  himself  outdone  by  any,  he  took  a 
superannuated  relation,  and  removed  soon  after  to  Elk 
river,  in  the  state  of  Tennessee,  and  spent  the  remain- 
der of  his  days  there  with  his  aged  mother  and  his 
bretinen.     Ascertaining  that  it  was  his  intention  to 
move  to  tliat  part  of  the  country,  his  brethren  iJi  the 
Virginia  conference,  many  of  whom  had  been  raised 
im{?er  his  fostering  care,  affectionately  and  earnestly 
requested  him  to  remain  among  them,  which,  however, 
he  respectfully  declined.     And  nothing  can  more  strik- 
ingly show  the  strength  of  their  affection  for  him,  and 
evince  the  high  estimation  in  which  he  was  held,  than 
8 


[1827« 

L  fervent  eja- 
)lessing  u|K)n 
imoii  among 
Joubt,  from  a 
or  help, 
ing  of  Philip 
him  preach, 
t  to  say  next, 
y  said  to  the 
ou  know  that 
bove."     This 
and  ho  went 
of  all  present, 
santness — not 
loyancy  of  his 
;able  to  those 
ch  sometimes 
ith  him,  how- 
to  benefit  his 
sleet. 

ngh  unwilling 
ly,  he  took  a 
»n  after  to  Elk 
r,t  the  reinain- 
lother  and  his 
IS  intention  to 
jrethren  in  the 
id  been  raised 
and  earnestly 
hich,  however, 
:an  more  strik- 
n  for  him,  and 
x&s  held,  than 


METHODIST    KPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


363 


1827.] 

the  fact,  that  not  long  before  his  death  the  Virginia 
conference  sent  him  an  invitation  to  pay  them  a  friendly 
visit,  that  they  miglit  once  more  mingle  their  prayers 
and  praises  together.  This  also  he  declined,  in  the 
following  words : — 

"  Many  affectionato  ties  bind  me  to  the  Virginia  confer- 
f^nce.  Your  expressions  of  good-will  have  awakened  tho 
tsnderesf.  friendships  of  my  houI  ;  but  it  is  very  probable 
that  I  shall  never  see  you  again  ;  for  though  in  my  zeal  I 
sometimes  try  to  preach,  my  preaching  is  like  old  Priam's 
dart — thrown  by  an  arm  enfeebled  with  age.  Indeed,  my 
work  is  well  nigh  done,  and  I  am  waiting  in  glorious  ex- 
jiectation  for  my  change  to  come ;  for  I  have  not  labored 
and  suffered  for  naught,  nor  followed  a  cunningly  devised 
fable." 

Not  long  after,  his  expectation,  in  regard  to  his  de- 
parture to  another  world,  was  realized.  On  tho  lOtli 
of  May,  1826,  at  the  house  of  his  brother,  Mr.  Joel 
Bruce,  who  lived  in  the  coimty  of  Giles,  Tennessee, 
this  tried  veteran  of  ('hrist  died  in  the  triumph  of  faith, 
surrounded  by  his  friends,  sealing  by  his  dying  testi- 
mony the  truth  and  power  of  that  rehgion  which  he 
had  reconmiended  to  others  for  forty-five  years. 

The  name  of  Freeborn  Garrettson  is  familiar  to 
-nost  of  my  readers.  Of  the  early  days  of  his  ministry, 
ind  of  the  sutferings  he  endured  in  the  cause  of  his 
Divine  Master,  as  well  as  his  success  in  winning  souls 
to  Christ,  an  ample  account  haa  been  given  in  the  pre- 
ceding volumes  of  this  Histor^  ;  and  those  who  wish 
to  see  these  things  in  a  more  full  and  minute  detail, 
are  referred  to  his  biography,  which  has  been  published 
and  extensively  circulated. 

He   may  be  sriid   ta   have  been  one  of  the  early 


364 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1827. 


pioneers  of  Methodism  in  this  country,  for  he  joined  the 
itinerant  connection  in  1775,  when  only  twenty-three 
years  ot  age,  and  was  employed  for  many  years  in 
fo.ining  new  circuits  and  districts,  in  wliich  lie  was 
eminently  usefid.     At  the  time  of  his  admission  into 
the  itinerant  ranks,  in  1775,  the  number  of  preachers 
was  only  19,  and  members  in  the  societies  3,14H;  and 
at  the  time  of  his  death,  in  1827,  these  had  increased 
to  1,042  preachers,  and  ('hurch  members  421,105 ;  and 
perhaps  no  individual  preacher  contributed  more,  if  in- 
detul  as  much,  to  promote  this  spread  of  the  work,  than 
the  Kev.  Freeborn  Garrettson.     Young,  vigorous,  unre- 
servedly devoted  to  God,  and  exceedingly  zealous  for 
the  salvation  of  souls,  wherever  he  went  he  carried  the 
flame  of  divine  love  with  him,  breathing  it  out  in  the 
most  pointed  and  earnest  appeals  to  the  consciences  of 
sinners,  and  in  the  soothmg  words  of  promise  and  en- 
couragement to  mourning  penitents.     Nor  was  he  less 
earnest  in  pressing  believers  forward  in  the  path  of 
humble  obedience,  that  they  might  attain  the  heights 
and  depths  of  redeeming  love. 

From  his  entrance  upon  this  work  until  1784  he 
traveled  extensively  through  the  states  of  North  and 
South  Carolina,  Virginia,  Maryland—  his  native  state 
— Delaware,  Pennsylvania,  and  New- Jersey;  and  in 
all  these  states  he  preached  the  word  with  peculiar  suc- 
cess, thousands  hanging  upon  his  lips  with  eager  atten- 
tion, and  hundreds  also  bearing  witness  to  the  truths 
he  delivered  by  the  reformation  which  was  effected  in 
their  hearts  and  lives  through  his  instrumentality.  And 
though  his  enemies  thought  to  confine  him  in  the  pri- 
sons to  which  they  committed  him  "  for  the  testimony 
of  Jesus,"  they  were  disappointed  in  their  expectation 


1827.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


365 


by  the  overruling  providence  of  God,  so  that  even  their 
wrath  "was  made  to  praise  him."  In  tliose  places 
wher.)  ho  so  labored  and  su/lored,  the  name  of  Freeborn 
Garrettson  was  lonjr  remembered  by  many  of  the  first 
generation  of  Methodists,  anaociated  witli  the  grateful 
recollection  that  he  was  their  spiritual  father;  and  on 
his  subsequent  visits,  when  time  had  wrinkled  his  brow, 
and  they  had  grown  old  in  the  service  of  their  Lord  and 
Master,  the  fires  of  their  first  love  were  enkindled  afresh, 
and  they  mingled  their  songs  of  thanksgiving  together 
for  the  "former  and  the  latter  rains"  of  divine  grace. 
How  sweet  were  these  recollections  ! 

Ho  was  one  of  the  little  veteran  band  that  so  nobly 
withstood  the  innovators  upon  Wesleyan  Methodism  in 
1778  and  1779,  when  it  required  all  the  united  wisdom, 
prudence,  forbearance,  and  cautious  foresight  of  Asbury 
and  his  associates,  who  stood  by  him,  to  check  the  fro- 
ward  zeal  of  those  who  would  run  l)efore  they  were 
sent  to  lay  on  hands  suddenly,  and  to  administer  the 
ordinances  without  proper  authority.  He  stood  firm  to 
his  purpose,  and  assisted  in  keeping  the  ship  to  her 
moorings,  until  the  Christmas  conference  furnished  her 
with  suitable  rigging,  and  set  her  afloat,  prop.:rly 
manned  and  olFicered,  with  well-authenticated  certifl- 
cates  of  their  character  and  authority  to  act  as  her 
commanders  and  conductors. 

Garrettson  was  also  among  those  memorable  men  to 
whom  Dr.  Coke  first  unfolded  the  plan  devised  by 
Wesley  for  the  organization  of  the  Methodist  societies 
in  America  into  a  church.  At  the  request  of  Asbury 
and  Coke,  he  "  went,"  says  the  latter,  "like  an  arrow," 
to  call  Uq  preachers  together  in  the  city  of  Baltimore  on 
the  25th  of  December,  1784,  where  they  matured  those 

3 


866 


A    HISTORY    OF  THE 


[1827. 


platis  find  adopted  those  measures  which  have  proved 
such  a  lasting  l)lessin4r  fo  the  MethcMlist  coininuuity  in 
tiiis  country.  In  the  midst  of  tliis  asseinhly,  which, 
tliouj^h  few  in  numhers,  was  com|K)sed  of  some  of  the 
choicest  spirits  of  tlie  age,  stood  Garreltson,  young,  ar- 
dent, full  of  zeal  for  God,  and  giving  his  counsel  in 
favor  of  the  system  of  rules,  orders,  and  ordinance's  sul>- 
initted  to  them  by  Coke,  under  the  sanction  of  Wesley. 
With  Asbury,  Dickens,  Reed,  Gill,  Pedicord,  Ware, 
Tunnell,  Phoibus,  and  others,  of  precious  memory,  fa- 
thers in  our  Israel,  he  cojnmingled  his  prayers  and 
counsels,  and  thus  contributed  to  lay,  dee|<  and  wide, 
the  foundation  of  that  spiritual  edifice  which,  by  the 
blessing  of  God  on  their  labora,  even  he  lived  to  see 
reared  in  beauty  and  glory,  and  under  whose  roof  many 
a  wanderer  has  sought  shelter  and  rest. 

He  was  also  the  rtrst  Methodist  preacher  in  this 
country  who  went  on  a  foreign  mission.  Having  re- 
ceived the  order  of  an  elder  at  the  Christmas  conference, 
and  being  solicited  by  Dr.  Coke  to  embark  on  a  mission 
to  Nova  Scotia,  he  cheerfully  relinquished  home  and 
kindred,  and  went  to  that  distant  province  of  the  British 
empire  to  carry  the  glad  tidings  of  salvation  to  the  lost. 
Here,  amid  summer's  heat  and  winter's  cold,  and  some- 
times hunger  and  thirst,  he  continued  about  two  years, 
traveling  extensively,  preaching  the  word  with  diligence, 
and  rejoicing  over  penitent  sinners  who  were  returning  to 
God ;  and  such  was  then*  affection  and  respect  for  his 
character,  that,  had  they  won  his  consent,  they  would 
most  gladly  have  retained  him  as  their  permanent  su- 
perintendent, and  that,  too,  under  the  sanction  of  both 
Wesley  and  Coke. 

But  his  Lord  had  other  work  for  him  to  do.  Not 
3 


I  to  do.     Not 


1827.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL  CHURCH.  367 

long  after  his  return  from  Nova  Scotia,  namely,  in 
1788,  Mr.  Garrettson  |)enetrated  throu,?»i  tlio  (Country 
north  of  the  city  of  New- York,  on  both  Hides  the  Hud- 
son river,  where  the  voice  of  a  McthiKhnt  preadier  was 
never  before  heard.     Here,  in  tlic  character  of  a  presi,!- 
ing  elder,  he  gave  direction  lo  the  laborw  of  Hcveral  young 
preachers,  who  spread  themselves  tlirough  tiio  country, 
north  and  south,  reaching  even  to  Vermont,  proclaiming' 
in  all  places  where  they  went,  tiie  unsearchable  ric.'ies 
of  Christ.     By  these  la!)ors  a  foundation  was  laid  for 
that  work  of  God  in  those  more  norfhern  states  of  the 
confederacy  wliich  has  since  spread  so  gloriously  among 
the  people. 

But  we  cannot  follow  him  in  all  Ins  useful  move- 
ments, from  one  year  to  another,  througli  the  different 
parts  of  the  country.  Suffice  it  to  say  here,  that  he 
continued  with  unabated  ardor  and  diligence  in  his 
Master's  work  until  the  year  1817,  when,  contrary  to 
his  wishes,  for  he  seemed  loath  to  Mieve  himself  una- 
ble  to  perform  efficient  service,  he  was  returned  a  super- 
numerary. This,  liowever,  i)y  no  means  abridged  \m 
labors.  Though  cut  loose  from  the  regular  work,  he 
still  pursued  the  path  of  usefulness,  making  occasional 
excursions  east  and  west,  north  and  south,  exhibiting 
the  same  fervor  of  spirit,  the  same  breatliing  after  im- 
inortality  and  eternal  life,  by  which  h.  had  ever  l^een 
characterized. 

In  1791  Mr.  Garrettson  saw  fit  to  exchange  the  sin- 
gle for  a  married  life,  and  his  clioice  fell  upon  a  woman, 
MisB  ::atharine  Livingston,  of  llMneheck,  N.  Y.,  who 
was  every  way  fitted,  Ix)th  from  e^  :&mn  and  piety,  to 
^siHt  him  in  the  grand  work  in  whah  u  had  engaged. 
This  also  ftirnished  him  with  means  to  orcach  the  gos- 

3 


ii^Lii*;;"'' 


368 


A    HI8T0Rr    OF   THE 


[1827. 


pel  withoMt  fee  or  reward,  as  well  as  to  exhibit  the  hos- 
pitalities of  a  liberal  mind,  and  thereby  to  fulfil  the 
apostolic  precept,  "  For  a  bishop"  (or  elder)  "  must  be 
given  to  hospitality."  From  the  time  of  his  settlement 
at  Rhinebeck,  where  he  located  his  family,  his  house 
Olid  heart  were  open  to  receive  and  welcome  the  mes- 
sengers of  God  ;  and  around  his  hospitable  board  have 
they  often,  from  year  to  year,  niingied  their  friendly 
souls  in  convcsation,  prayer,  and  praise;  nor  could 
these  guests  depart  without  carrying  with  them  grateful 
recollections  of  the  gospel  simplicity^  courtesy,  and  libe- 
rality with  which  they  had  been  entertained. 

But  the  time  at  last  arrived  when  this  man  of  God, 
one  of  the  patriarchs  ol  American  Methodism,  must  re- 
sign up  his  breath  to  God  who  gave  it.  In  the  seventy- 
sixth  year  of  his  age,  and  fiviy-second  of  his  ministry, 
he  ended  his  days  in  peace,  surrounded  by  his  friends, 
and  consoled  by  the  hope  of  everlasting  life. 

In  contemplating  the  character  of  Mr.  Garrettson, 
we  may  behold  a  cluster  of  those  excellences  which 
dignify  and  adorn  the  man  and  the  minister,  and  which 
qualify  him  for  usefulness  in  the  world.  But  that 
which  eminently  distinguished  him,  both  in  public  and 
private,  was  the  simplicity ■>  or  singleness  of  heart, 
with  which  he  deported  himself  on  all  occasions.  This 
sterling  virtue  kept  him  at  an  equal  distance  from  the 
corrodin^s  of  jealousy  and  the  repinings  of  suspicion. 
A  single  desire  to  know  the  good  and  the  right  way,  to 
walk  in  it  himself,  and  induce  others  to  follow  his  ex- 
ample, most  evidently  characterized  his  mind,  a.r.i 
guided  him  in  all  his  proceedings. 

This  singlent^ss  of  heart,  which  had  its  seat  in  pure 
love  to  God  and  man,  first  led  him  forth  in  search  of 
3 


1887.J  METHostvr  iPiaeoifAL  church. 

the  lost  sheep  of  the  house  of  Israel,  sustained  him 
under  his  labors  and  trials,  kept  him  humble  in  the 
midst  of  his  prosperity,  and  in  seasons  of  popularity 
among  the  friends  of  the  cause  in  which  he  was  en- 
gaged.   No  one  could  be  long  in  his  company,  nor 
often  hear  him  preach,  without  perceiving  this  honest 
simplicity  of  intention  shining  out  among  the  other 
graces  of  his  mind,  guiding  and  actuating  the  entire 
man  in  all  his  movements.     And  this  arose  from  the 
purity  of  his  heart  and  the  sanctity  of  his  Hfe.     For  no 
man,  I  presume  to  say,  ever  gave  more  irrefutable  evi- 
dence of  the  holiness  of  his  heart  and  the  blamelessness 
of  his  life,  from  the  time  of  his  entrance  on  his  Chris- 
tian course,  about  fifty-two  years  of  which  were  spent 
as  a  public  ambassador  of  Christ,  than  Freeborn  Gar- 
rettson     What  a  living  and  speaking  comment  this 
upon  the  pure  doctrines  of  Jesus  Christ ! 

His  actio.,  in  the  pulpit  was  not  graceful,  though  ^ 
was  solemn  and  impressive.     His  sermons  were  some-" 
times  enlivened  by  anecdotes  of  a  character  calculated 
to  illustrate  the  points  he  was  aiming  to  establish.    He 
m^  likewise  deficient  in  systematic  arrangement  and 
logical  precision.     This  deficiency,  however,  was  mo-e 
than  made  up  by  the  pointedness  of  his  appeals  to  the 
conscience,  the  aptness  of  his  illustrations  from  Scrip- 
tare  the  manner  in  which  he  explained  and  enforced 
tlie  depth  of  Christian  experience,  and  the  holy  fervor 
of  spirit  with  which  he  delivered  himself  on  aU  occa- 
sions.    Like  most  other  extemporaneous  speakers,  his 
nnnd  sometimes  seemed  barren,  and  he  foUed,  appa- 
'•«nUy  for  want  of  words,  to  express  that  on  which  his 
understanding  appeared  to  be  laboring.     At  other  times 
h's  heart  appeared  full,  his  mind  luminous,  and  he 

24  3 


370  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  (1827. 

would  pour  forth  a  stream  of  gospel  truth  which  abun- 
dantly refreshed  the  souls  of  God's  people  with  the 
"living  waters."  And  although  his  gesticulations  were 
somewhat  awkward,  and  his  voice  at  times  unmusical, 
especially  when  raised  to  a  high  key,  there  was  that  in 
his  manner  and  matter  which  always  rendered  hia 
preaching  entertaining  and  useful ;  and  seldom  did  the 
iiearer  tire  under  his  administration  of  the  word  of  life 
—point,  pathos,  and  variety  generally  characterizing 
all  his  discourses. 

Mr.  Garrettson  was  a  great  friend  to  all  our  institu- 
tions, literary  and  religious.  To  ihe  American  Bible 
Society,  and  to  our  missionary  and  tract  societies,  ho 
was  a  liberal  contributor  and  a  firm  advocate.  Nor 
were  the  worn-out  preachers,  their  widows  and  orphans, 
forgotten  in  his  benefactions.  When  acting  in  the  ca- 
pacity of  a  presiding  elder,  I  have  known  him  receive, 
and  then  give  away  to  some  poor  preacher,  his  wife,  or 
some  dependent  widow,  his  share  of  the  quarterly  allow- 
ance, as  well  as  make  special  efforts  among  our  more 
wealthy  members  and  friends  to  replenish  the  funds 
instituted  for  these  needy  and  deserving  objects. 

But  he  has  gone  to  his  reward ;  and  this  record  is 
made  as  a  small  tribute  of  respect  to  one  who  is  dear 
iu  the  recollections  of  many,  in  whose  friendship  the 
writer  had  the  honor  and  happiness  of  sharing,  whose 
example  he  would  remember  to  imitate  and  transmit  to 
others,  that  they  may  profit  by  calling  it  to  recollection 
when  he  who  now  writes  shall  mingle  his  ashes  with 
all  that  remains  earthly  of  Garrettson,  and  his  spirit, 
redeemed  and  purified  by  the  blood  of  the  T.amb,  shaU 
mingle~0,  may  it  be  so  '.—with  his  around  the  throna 
of  Gtid  for  ever. 


1827.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  371 

Two  of  the  others  who  had  taken  their  flight  to 
another  world  deserve  a  passing  notice. 

James  Smith,  of  the  Baltimore  conference,  when  he 
ended  his  race,  was  comparatively  young  in  the  minis- 
try. At  the  age  of  forty-three  or  forty-four,  after  having 
discharged  the  duties  of  an  itinerant  minister  for  twenty- 
four  years,  he  departed  in  great  peace  of  mind,  in  the 
city  of  Baltimore,  surrounded  by  his  Christian  friends 
and  brethren. 

He  was  a  man  of  strong  powers  of  mind,  of  a  warm 
heart,  and  a  cultivated  intellect.  His  natural  vivacity 
sometimes  gave  place  to  deep  gloom,  which  almost  un- 
fitted him  for  the  duties  of  his  station,  and  made  him  a 
little  burdensome  to  his  friends.  These  temporary  de- 
pressions of  spirit,  however,  were  but  occasional  spots 
which  appeared  to  obscure  the  brilliancy  of  a  mind  well 
stored  with  useful  knowledge,  and  to  oppress  a  heart 
generally  overflowing  with  the  kindliest  feelings  toward 
his  brethren  and  friends. 

As  a  minister  of  Jesus  Christ,  he  was  a  workinan 
that  .leeded  not  to  be  ashamed.  He  rose  with  the  dignity 
of  the  subject  which  he  attempted  to  explain,  and  some- 
times spoke  with  an  eloquence,  energy,  and  pathos, 
which,  while  it  delighted  the  hearer,  filled  him  with 
adoring  gratitude  to  that  God  who  had  given  his  ser- 
vant the  p.  wer  thus  to  persuade  sinners  to  be  reconciled 
to  God.  He  was  therefore  powerful  in  the  pulpit  and 
strenuous  in  his  endeavors  to  advance  the  cause  of 
Jesus  Christ. 

In  the  midst  of  the  discussions  which  arose  on  the 
appointment  of  presiding  eldeiv,  and  other  collateral 
subjects,  which  either  directly  or  indirectly  grew  out  of 
that,  our  brother  Smith  took  a  deep  interest,  beinj?  an 

3^ 


972 


A    HISTORY    OF   THE 


[1827. 


advocate  of  what  was  considered  the  popidar  side  of 
that  question.      Bein}:^  yoiuifr,  ardent,  full  of  zeal  for 
any  cause  he  might  espuse,  he  has  lieen  heard  sonie- 
tim^<s  on  the  floor  of  the  General  Conference  in  such 
strains  of  impassioned  eloquence,  that  one  would  think 
it  hardly  possible  to  resist  the  force  of  his  arguments 
and  the  directness  of  his  appeals.     But  there  was  a  par- 
ticular excellence  which  mingled  itself  with  all  these 
debates.     With  whatever  fervor  of  spirit,  warmth  of 
zeal,  or  power  of  argument  he  might  enter  the  arena  of 
controversy  on  these  subjects,  he  always  concluded  with 
an  expression  of  his  perfect  fellowship  for  those  who 
dissented  from  him,  and  of  his  unabated  attachment  to 
the  rales  and  constitution  of  the  Church  of  his  choice. 
I  remember  to  have  heard  him  on  one  of  these  occa- 
sions, I  think  it  was  in  the  year  1816,  when,  after  run- 
ning tluough  the  field  of  argument  and  illustration,  to 
sustain  liis  positions,  and  to  prostrate,  if  possible,  his 
antagonists,  ho  concluded  with  these  words : — "  If  any 
man  consider  me  his  enemy  because  I  differ  from  hiin 
in  opinion,  I  want  not  that  man  for  my  friend." 

These  words,  delivered,  apparently,  with  a  heart 
overflowing  with  feelings  of  kindness  toward  all  men, 
left  an  impression  upon  all  minds,  I  should  think,  if  I 
may  judge  others  by  myself,  as  favorable  to  the  speak- 
er's heart  and  affections,  as  did  his  arguments  upon 
those  who  were  most  partial  to  his  views.  I  remember 
well  that  Bishop  M'Kendroe,  who  was  pointedly  opposed 
to  the  theory  of  brother  Smith,  and  who  had  heard 
some  cutting  remarks  in  the  course  of  the  speech,  a  few 
minutes  only  after  this  peroration  was  pronounced,  took 
the  orator  in  his  arms  in  the  most  affectionate  manner, 


1827.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  ^f^ 

feelU,  ^f  *""'  ^  «"PP<«ed,  of  hie  fellowship  and  kindly 

It  was  thought,  however,  by  some  of  his  intimate 
friends,  ihnt  these  discuHHions,  which  were  continnod  in 
various  forms,  from  one  year  f  o  another,  until  they  termi- 
nated at  the  Conference  of  1828,  so  wor.  upon  the  ner- 
vous  system  of  Mr.  S.nith  that  it  accelerated  the  dinease 
of  w  uch  he  died.     J  lis  sensitive  mind  and  warmth  of 
affection  led  him  to  espouse  any  ca-  e  in  which  he  en- 
gaged with  the  enthusiasm  of  an  able  advocate,  and 
his  delicate  nerves  vibrated  under  the  continual  irrita- 
tion produced  In  coming  in  constant  collision  with  other 
minds  equal  |.    his  own,  and  with  other  arLn.ments 
with  which  he  ,o.md  it  difficult  to  grapple  with  «.a  cess. 
He  therefore  finally  sunk  under  the  pressure  of  those 
causes,  which  .surrounded  him,  and  was  consumed  by 
the  hres  whi«  !i  burned  within  him. 

But  that  same  talent  which  qualified  him  for  a  pow- 
erful debater  enabled  him  to  shine  in  the  pulpit,  and  to 
develop  the  truths  of  the  gospel  with  clearness  and  pre- 
cision. If  there  was  any  fault  in  the  style  of  his  pulpit 
eloquence,  it  consisted  in  an  apparent  efori  at  original- 
ity, and  a  labor  after  a  diction  somewhat  pompous 
instead  of  being-  entirely  natural,  plain,  and  pointed! 
inis  caused  an  occasional  obscurity,  painful  to  the 
hearer,  and  which  prevented  the  full  flow  of  truth  from 
entering  the  understanding  and  the  heart. 

It  could  not  be  otherwise  than  that  a  man  thus  con- 
stituted should  be  amiable  in  his  manners.  Brother 
«mith,  indeed,  possessed  the  social  qualities  in  a  high 
degree,  and  was  therefore  a  pleasant  and  edifying  com- 
Panion,  and  warm  in  hir  attachments.  And  nothing 
^vould  tend  so  quickly  and  so  effectually  to  relieve  his 

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A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1827. 


soul  from  the  burden  of  melancholy  to  which  I  have 
alluded  as  social  intercourse,  when  some  anecdote  hap- 
pily introduced  would  drive  away  the  demon  of  gloom 
which  occasionally  hovered  over  his  mind,  and  re- 
store him  to  his  wonted  cheerfulness  and  coUoquial 
vivacity. 

There  were  also  a  candor  and  frankness  in  his  dis- 
Pc^ition  and  communications  which  at  once  allayed  all 
suspicions  of  his  intentions,  and  threw  him  into  your 
arms  "as  a  brother  beloved."  No  double-meaning 
phrases,  no  studied  ambiguity,  hke  the  responses  of  the 
heathen  oracles,  which  might  be  susceptible  of  an  inter- 
pretation to  suit  the  occasion,  marked  and  debased  the 
conversation  or  conduct  of  James  Smith.  When  you 
heard  his  words  you  knew  his  heart.  When  you  re- 
ceived his  declaration  you  had  a  pledge  of  his  senti- 
ments in  the  sincerity  and  candor  with  which  he  spoke, 
and  therefore  always  felt  yourself  safe  in  his  society, 
and  no  less  pleased  than  edified  by  his  conversation. 

It  is  indeed  pleasant  to  linger  along  the  path  of  such 
men,  and  call  to  our  recollection  those  excellences  which 
beautified  their  character,  and  made  them  so  estimable 
in  their  day  and  generation.  But  we  must  check  the 
current  of  our  thoughts,  and  give  place  to  some  others 
equally  entitled  to  notice,  while  we  may  be  allowed  to 
anticipate  the  day  when,  unencumbered  by  those  in- 
firmities "  which  flesh  is  heir  to,"  kindred  spirits  shall 
mingle  their  songs  together  around  the  throne  of  God 
and  the  Lamb. 

Seth  Crowdl  was  another  who  died  in  the  meridian 
of  life,  and  left  behind  him  memorials  of  his  fidelify  in 
the  cause  of  God.     He  entered  the  traveUng  ministry  in 


1827.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


375 


1801,  and  finished  his  course  in  the  twenty-fifth  year 
of  his  public  labors. 

In  the  early  days  of  his  ministry  he  volunteered  his 
services  for  Upper  Canada,  where  he  exhibited  those 
talents  for  preaching,  and  that  ardency  of  zeal,  which 
much  endeared  him  to  the  people  in  that  province ;  and 
he  left  behind  him  many  witnesses,  converted  under  his 
preaching,  of  the  power  and  skill  with  which  he  v/ielded 
"the  sword  of  the  Spirit."    In  1806  and  1807  he  was 
stationed  in  the  city  of  New- York,  under  the  charge  of 
the  Rev.  Aaron  Hunt.    Here  a  revival  of  religion  com- 
menced, such,  T  believe,  as  had  never  before  been  seen 
or  felt  in  that  city,  and  brother  Crowell  was  one  of  the 
most  active  instruments  by  which  it  was  promoted. 
It  was  during  this  powerful  revival  that  the  practice  of 
inviting  penitent  sinners  to  come  to  the  altar  for  prayers 
\yas  first  introduced.     The  honor  of  doing  this,  if  I  am 
rightly  informed,  belongs  to  brother  A.  Hunt,  who  re- 
sorted to  it  to  prevent  the  confusion  arising  from  praying 
for  them  in  diflTerent  parts  of  the  church  at  the  same  time. 
In  the  midst  of  the  shakings  and  tremblings  among 
the  congregations  during  this  great  work,  Seth  Crowell 
was  eminently  useful,  preaching  with  the  "Holy  Ghost 
sent  down  from  heaven,"  beseeching  sinners  to  be  re- 
conciled to  God,  and  accompanying  all  his  efibrts  with 
mighty  prayer  and  faith. 

But  his  great  exertions  and  his  abstemious  manner 
of  living  soon  made  inroads  upon  his  physical  constitu- 
tion, and  this  produced  often  a  depression  of  spirits 
which  rendered  him  sometimes  quite  unhappy.  In 
consequence  of  these  things  he  was  obliged  at  times  to 
remit  his  regular  preaching,  and  seek  to  reciiiit  his 
exhausted  strength  in  a  more  retired  sphere  of  labor. 

3 


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When,  however,  in  the  vigor  of  his  strength,  the 
warmth  of  his  affections  and  his  longing  desires  for  the 
salvation  of  souls  led  him  forth  with  great  zeal,  both  in 
and  out  of  the  pulpit,  and  he  sometimes  preached  with 
a  power  and  eloquence  which  overwhelmed  his  congre- 
gations "with  speechless  awe  and  silent  love."  Nor 
was  it  mere  declamation.  His  sermons  were  sometimes 
deeply  argumentative,  and  his  positions  supported  by 
Scripture  texts  so  appositely,  that  it  amounted  to  a  mo- 
ral demonstration  of  their  truth ;  and  not  unfrequently 
sinners  would  be  constrained  to  cry  aloud  for  mercy 
while  he  was  making  his  searching  appeals  to  their 
consciences. 

His  preaching  was  frequently  of  a  controversial  cha- 
racter. Against  the  peculiarities  of  Calvinism  and 
Universalism  he  bore  a  strong  and  pointed  testimony, 
delighting  to  exhibit  the  universal  love  of  God  to  man 
on  the  one  hand,  and  the  great  danger  of  abusing  it  on 
tho  other,  by  obstinately  refusing  to  comply  with  the 
conditions  of  the  gospel.  And  his  sermons  on  these 
occasions  were  sometimes  deUvered  with  great  point 
and  power,  and  could  not  do  otherwise  than  offend 
thosQ  who  tenaciously  held  the  sentiments  which  he 
oppoied.  That  the  indulgence  of  this  spirit  of  contro- 
versy had  an  unfavorable  bearing  sometimes  upon  the 
tranquillity  of  his  mind  I  think  was  evident;  and 
hence  h^  af&rds  an  example  of  the  danger  to  be  appre- 
hended fbm  carrying  on  a  theological  warfare  on  doc- 
trinal points,  lest  it  contract  the  heart,  and  degenerate 
into  a  querulous  disposition  respecting  points  of  more 
minor  importance  than  those  which  first  awakened  the 
ipirit  of  discussbn. 

Tfai%  tog!etber  with  the  many   bodily   infirmities 


1827.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHITRCH.  37? 

which  brother  Crowell  suffered  toward  the  close  of  his 
hfe,  no  doubt,  at  times,  interrupted  that  sweet  flow  of 
brotherly  affection  which  binds  the  hearts  of  brethren 
together  in  the  bundle  of  life,  and  leads  to  that  recipro- 
city  of  those  kindlier  feelings  which  render  social  inter- 
course so  agreeable  and  edifying. 

He  has,  however,  gone  to  his  rest.    He  lingered  for 
several  months  under  a  slowly  wasting  disease,  during 
which  patience  and  resignation  were  exemplified  in  an 
eminent  degree,  and  his  soul  was  buoyed  up  with  the 
blissful  prospect  of  entering  into  life  eternal.     He  left 
behind  him  many  warm  and  admiring  friends  who  had 
been  profited  by  his  ministry.    If  he  had  enemies  he 
forgave  them ;  nor  couid  they  suffer  their  disaffection  to 
follow  him  beyond  the  tomb.    The  grace  of  God  in 
Christ  at  last  gave  him  a  victory  over  the  sting  of  death, 
and  I.  riiismitted  his  soul  to  the  regions  of  the  just.    And 
whatever  infirmities  may  have  occasionally  eclipsed  the 
glory  of  his  character,  human  sympathy  ceases  to  weep 
over  them  in  view  of  the  many  excellences  which  beau- 
tified his  mind,  inspired  as  they  were  by  that  grace 
which  carried  him  through  the  storms  of  life  safely  to 
the  harbor  of  eternal  rest.     Nor  will  this  record  be  mis- 
interpreted by  those  who  were  acquainted  with  the 
intimate   relation  sometimes  subsisting    between  the 
writer  and'  his  deceased  friend ;  while  to  others  it  is 
enough  to  say,  that  death  not  only  dissolved  all  earthly 
ties,  but  was  also  a  period  of  cementing  that  union  of 
spirit  which,  it  is  humbly  hoped,  will  be  more  fully 
consummated  in  the  kingdom  of  glory  and  of  God. 

3 


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t 


378                                  A   HISTORY   OF   THE 

L1828. 

Number  of  Church  members. 

Whites.            Colored.            Total. 

This  year      327,932       54,065       381,997 
Last  year      309,550        51,334       360,884 

Preachers. 

1,576 
1,406 

Increase      18,382 

2,731         21,113 

170 

Among  the  colored  members  above  enumerated  are 
included  five  hundred  and  twenty-three  Indians,  all  in 
Upper  Canada  except  one ;  but  there  were  many  more 
converted  Indians  than  are  here  reported.  It  seems 
that  at  this  time  the  conferences  were  not  in  the  habit 
generally  of  returning  the  number  of  Indian  converts 
separately  in  the  Minutes ;  and  as  the  reports  of  the 
Missionary  Society  were  all  consumed  in  the  disastrous 
fire  of  the  Book  Concern  in  1836,  it  is  not  now  possible 
to  ascertain  their  exact  number  at  that  time. 


,« 


^ 


imam 


CHAPTER  IX. 

The  General  Conference  of  1828. 

This  conferenc**  convened  in  the  city  of  Pittsburgh, 
May  1,  1828.  Five  bishops,  namely,  M'Kendree, 
George,  Roberts,  Soule.  and  Hedding,  were  present,  and 
the  confere  3  was  opened  by  Bishop  M'Kendree,  with 
reading  the  Scriptures,  singing,  and  prayer,  after  which 
Dr.  Rutcr,  book  agent  at  Cincinnati,  was  elected  secretary. 

The  following  is  a  list  of  the  delegates  who  composed 
this  conference : — 

New-York  Conference.* 
Nathan  Bangs,  Arnold  ScholefieH, 

**  Freeborn  Garrettson  was  elected  from  this  conference, 
but  deceased  before  the  meeting  of  the  General  Conference. 
3 


la 


1828.1 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL  CHURCH. 


379 


lis  conference, 
al  Conference. 


John  Emory, 
Laban  Clark, 
Peter  P.  Sandford, 
Fliineas  Rice, 
Stephen  Martindale, 
Daniel  Ostrander, 
John  B.  Straiten, 
Lewis  Pease, 


Tobias  Spicer, 
Heman  Bangs, 
Marvin  Richardson, 
Samuel  Luckey, 
Thomas  Burch, 
Buel  Goodsell, 
Henry  Stead, 
James  Youngs. 


New-England  Conference. 
George  Pickering,  Daniel  Dorchester, 


Timothy  Merritt, 
John  Lindcey, 
Edward  Hyde, 
Joseph  A.  Merrill, 
Benjamin  R.  Hoyt, 
Jacob  Sanborn, 
John  W.  Hardy, 


Eleazar  Wells, 
Ephraim  Wiley, 
Elisha  Streeter, 

Loring  Grant, 
Horace  Agard, 
George  Peck, 
Josiah  Keyes, 
Robert  Parker, 
Morgan  Sherman, 
Edmond  O'Fling, 
Israel  Chamberlain, 
George  Harmon, 


Wilbur  Fiak, 
Daniel  Fillmore, 
Isaac  Bonny, 
John  F.  Adams, 
Joseph  B.  White, 
John  Lord, 
Lewis  Bates, 
Thomas  C.  Pierce. 

Maine  Conference. 

Heman  Nickerson, 
David  Kilboum, 
Stephen  Lovell. 

Genesee  Conference. 

Ralph  Lanning, 
Isaac  Grart, 
Zechariah  Paddock, 
James  Hall, 
Manley  Tooker, 
Gideon  Lanning, 
Seth  Mattison, 
John  Dempster, 
Jonathan  Huestis. 


Canada  Conference. 
William  Ryerson,  Samuel  Belton, 


m 


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If 


John  Ryerson, 


A   HISTORY   OF  THB 

William  Slater, 
Wyatt  Chamberlain. 

PtUsburgh  Conference. 


[1828. 


William  Stevens, 
Daniel  Limerick, 
David  Sharp, 
Henry  Furlong, 
William  Lambdin, 

Jacob  Young, 
David  Young, 
James  B.  Finley, 
John  F.  Wright, 
Russel  Bigelow, 


Andrew  Monroe, 


James  Moore, 
Asa  Shinn, 
Henry  B.  Bascom, 
Thornton  Fleming, 
Charles  Elliott. 

Ohio  Conference. 

Greenbury  R.  Jones 
James  Quinn, 
John  Collins, 
Moses  Crume, 
Leroy  Swormstedt, 
John  Brown. 

Missouri  Conference. 
Jesse  Haile. 


Illinois  Conference. 
Peter  Cartwright,  James  Armstrong, 

Samuel  H.  Thompson,  John  Strange, 

John  Dew,  Charles  HoUiday. 

Kentucky  Conference. 
Richard  Tidings,     ,  Marcus  Lindsey, 

Thomas  A.  Morris,  William  Adams, 

Peter  Akors,  Henry  M'Daniel, 

Benjamin  T.  Crouch,  Jonathan  Stamper, 

George  C.  Light,  George  W.  M'Nelly, 

Jolm  Tivis. 

Holston  Conference. 
Thomas  Wilkerson,  Elbert  F.  Sevier, 

Samuel  Patton,  William  S.  Manson, 

James  Gumming,  William  Patton, 

Thomas  Stringtield. 


II 


18^8.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    Cllt'UCII. 


Tennessee  Conference. 
James  Gwin,  Finch  P.  Scruggs,   . 

William  M'Mahon,  Francis  A.  Owen, 

James  M'Ferrin,  Ashley  D.  Roszoll, 

Jlobert  Paine,  Jolin  M.  Holland, 

Joshua  Butcher. 
Mismaippi  Conference. 
Benjamin  M.  Drake,  Robert  L.  Kennon, 

William  Winans,  Barnabas  Pipkin, 

Thomas  Griffin,  John  C.  Burruss. 

South  Carolina  Conference. 
James  0.  Andrew,  Samuel  K.  Hodges, 


William  Capers, 

George  Hill, 

1 

William  Kennedy, 

William  Arnold, 

Lovick  Pierce, 

Andrew  Haiiiill, 

1 
'i 

Henry  Bass, 

Malcora  M'Pherson, 

Samuel  Dunwody, 

Robert  Adams, 

Elijah 

Sinclair. 

Virginia 

Conference. 

Daniel  Hall, 

Moses  Brock, 

Hezekiuh  G.  Leigh, 

Peter  Doub, 

Lewis  Skidmore, 

Henry  Holmes, 

Caleb  Leach, 

Thomas  Crowder, 

Joseph  Carson, 

John  Early. 

Baltimore 

Conference. 

Stephen  G.  Roszel, 

James  M.  Hanson, 

Nelson  Reed, 

Beverly  Waugh, 

Joshua  Wells, 

Andrew  Hemphill, 

Joseph  Frye, 

Job  Guest, 

Henry  Smith, 

Murmaduke  Pierce, 

John  Davis, 

Christopher  Fryo. 

Philadelph 

\a  Conference. 

Ezekiel  Cooper, 

David  Dflily, 

Lawrence  M'Combs, 

WilHam  Leonard, 

8 


382 


A    HISTORY    OP   THE 


[1828. 


li: 


It: 

I  s" 


•I 


Manning  Force, 
John  Potts, 
Charles  Pittman 
James  Smith, 
John  Smith, 


Joseph  Lybrand, 
Lot  Warfield, 
George  Woolley, 
Thomas  Noal, 
Walter  Burrows, 
Solomon  Higgins. 

After  the  organization  of  the  conference  the  following 
address  was  received  from  the  bishops,  and  referred  to 
appropriate  committees : — 

*'  DiiAR  Brethren  : — It  is  our  bounden  duty  to  join  in 
devout  and  grateful  acknowledgments  to  the  Father  of 
mercies,  whose  gracious  providence  has  preserved  us  in 
all  our  ways,  and  especially  through  the  toils  and  dangers 
which  have  attended  our  journey  from  different  and  distant 
parts  of  the  United  States  to  this  place.  And  while  we 
acknowledge  with  gratitude  the  past  interpositions  of  di- 
vine agency,  let  us  unite  in  humble  and  fervent  prayer  for 
the  influence  of  the  Holy  Spirit  to  guide  us  in  all  our  de- 
liberations, and  to  preserve  us  and  the  whole  Church  in 
the  unity  of  the  Spirit  and  in  the  bonds  of  peace. 

"  During  the  last  four  years  it  has  pleased  the  great 
Head  of  the  church  to  continue  his  heavenly  benediction 
on  our  Zion.  The  work  has  been  greatly  extended ;  many 
new  circuits  and  districts  have  been  formed  in  different 
parts  of  our  vast  field  of  labor ;  but  yet  there  is  room,  and 
pressing  calls  for  much  greater  enlargement  are  constantly 
made. 

"  The  great  and  extensive  revivals  of  religion  which  we 
have  experienced  the  last  three  years  through  almost  every 
part  of  the  work,  furnish  additional  proof  *  that  God's  de- 
sign in  raising  up  the  preachers  called  Methodists,  in 
America,  was  to  reform  the  continent,  and  .spread  Scrip- 
ture holiness  over  these  lands.'  These  revivals  have  been 
the  nurseries  of  the  Church  and  of  the  ministry. 


1828.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


383 


"  Perhaps  it  deserves  to  bo  regarded  as  an  extraordinary 
interposition  of  the  divine  mercy  in  behalf  of  the  Church, 
that  the  year  ending  with  this  date  has  been  peculiarly 
distinguished  by  the  abundant  outpourings  of  the  Holy 
Spirit,  and  the  increase  both  in  the  ministry  and  member- 
ship. 

"  While  we  are  fully  persuaded  that,  under  God,  our 
itinerant  system  has  been  the  most  effectual  means  of  car- 
rying on  this  groat  and  blessed  work,  we  recommend  it  to 
you  to  guard  against  whatever  measures  may  have  a  ten- 
dency to  weaken  the  energies  of  this  system,  or  to  locality 
in  any  department  of  the  traveling  ministry. 

"  Our  missionary  work  has  been  greatly  increased  since 
the  last  session  of  the  General  Conference.  Many  parts 
of  our  extensive  frontiers  and  newly  acquired  territories 
have  received  the  gospel  of  salvation  by  the  labors  of  mis- 
sionaries. The  importance  and  necessity  of  maintaining 
this  efficient  missionary  system  are  sufficiently  demon- 
strated by  the  blessed  effects  which  it  has  produced.  Vast 
regions  of  country,  almost  entirely  destitute  of  the  gospel 
ministry,  have  by  this  means,  and  at  a  small  expense  from 
the  missionary  funds,  been  formed  into  circuits,  and  em- 
braced in  our  regular  work. 

"  Missions  have  been  established  in  several  Indian  na- 
tions, most  of  which  have  succeeded  beyond  our  highest 
expectations.  And  although,  in  some  cases,  we  have  had 
much  to  discourage  us,  and  many  difficulties  to  encounter 
and  overcome  in  the  prosecution  of  this  work,  we  consider 
it  of  indispensable  obligation  to  continue  our  efforts  with 
increasing  interest,  for  the  salvation  of  this  forlorn  and 
afflicted  people. 

"  Our  attention  has  been  called  to  South  America,  and 
to  the  American  colony  and  surrounding  nations  in  Africa. 
But  hitherto  we  have  not  been  able  to  send  missionaries  to 
either  place. 

3 


If 


Iv- 


I**- 


884  A   HI8T0RT  OF  THS  [1888 

"  We  invite  the  attention  of  the  General  Conference  to 
this  important  subject.  And  while  we  cannot  but  regard 
the  Missionary  Society  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church 
as  a  very  oflicient  auxiliary  to  our  itinerant  system,  and 
happily  calculated  to  diffuse  the  blessings  of  the  gospel 
among  the  poor  and  destitute,  we  recommend  it  as  a  sub- 
ject of  inquiry  whether  it  be  necessary  to  adopt  any  fur- 
ther measures  to  render  this  important  institution  more  ex- 
tensive and  harmonious  in  its  membership,  and  more 
abundant  and  permanent  in  its  resources ;  and  if  any, 
what  measures  will  be  best  calculated  to  promote  these 
desirable  ends. 

"  Since  the  last  session  of  this  body,  the  <  Sunday  School 
Union  and  Tract  Societies  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church'  have  assumed  an  important  and  interesting  cha- 
racter, and  appear  to  promise  great  and  lasting  benefits  to 
the  community  in  general,  and  to  the  rising  generation  in 
particular.  Your  wisdom  will  dictate  wherein  it  is  neces- 
sary tc  give  any  additional  direction  and  support  to  these 
benevolent  and  growing  institutions. 

"  As  the  right  of  all  the  members  of  the  Methodist  Epis- 
copal Church  to  trial  and  appeal,  as  prescribed  in  the  form 
of  Discipline,  is  sacredly  secured  by  the  acts  of  the  Ge- 
neral Conference  of  1808,  it  may  not  bo  improper  to  insti- 
tute an  inquiry,  at  the  present  session,  whether  any  rule  in 
the  Discfoline  may  be  construed  or  applied  so  as  to  niih- 
tate  against  such  acts  ;  and  if  so,  remedy  the  evil. 

"  We  invite  your  attention  to  a  careful  examination  of 
the  administration  of  the  government,  to  see  if  it  has  been 
in  accordance  with  the  strictneas  and  purity  of  our  system. 

"  Through  a  combination  of  circumstances,  we  have 
failed  to  comply  with  the  instructions  of  the  last  General 
Conference  relative  to  the  appointment  of  a  delegate  to  the 
British  conference.  We  deeply  regret  this  failure.  And 
it  would  be  far  more  afflictive  were  we  not  assured  that  it 
8 


1828.]  METHODIHT    KIMSCOrAI.    ClIUROII.  385 

has  not  boon  occasionod,  in  tho  least  dogroe,  by  any  want 
of  affection  and  respect  for  oui-  Uritish  brethren,  or  any 
indisposition  to  continue  that  medium  of  intercourse  with 
them.  Wo  therefore  recommend  it  to  you  to  supply  our 
lack  of  service  by  appointing,  in  such  a  manner  as  you 
shall  judge  proper,  a  representative  and  messenger  to  visit 
the  British  conference  at  its  next  session. 

"  May  the  God  of  peace  be  with  y<m,  and  with  the 
Church  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  committed  to  your  care. 

♦'  Yours  with  affection  and  esteem  in  the  bonds  of  tlie 


There  were  several  important  matters  which  came 
up  for  adjudication  before  this  conference,  affecting  both 
tlie  doctrines  and  government  of  the  Church,  as  well 
as  the  character  of  some  individuals.  The  first—that 
which  affected  the  doctrines  of  the  Church—was  pre- 
sented  in  an  appeal,  by  the  Rev.  Joshua  Randell,  from 
a  decision  of  the  New-England  conference,  by  which 
he  had  been  expelled  for  holding  and  propagating  doc- 
trines inconsistent  with  our  acknowledged  standards  :■— 

"I.  In  denying  that  the  transgressions  of  the  law,  to 
which  wo  are  personally  responsible,  have  had  any  atone- 
ment  made  for  them  by  Christ. 

"2.  Maintaining  that  the  infinite  claims  of  justice  upon 
the  transgressor  of  the  divine  law  may,  upon  the  condition 
of  the  mere  acts  of  the  transgressor  himself,  be  relin- 
quished and  given  up,  and  the  transgressor  pardoned 
without  an  atonement." 

On  these  two  specifications,  both  of  which  the  de- 
fendant acknowledged  that  he  held,  the  New-England 
conference  had  fixsi  suspended  him,  and  given  him 
one  year  to  reflect,  and,  if  convinced  of  his  error,  to  re- 
tract ;  and  then,  on  finding  that,  at  the  end  of  the  year, 

25  3 


386 


A    HIHTORY    OV    THB 


•  1' 


I    } 


tm 


m 


[1828. 

h«  perwsted  in  his  belief  in  those  two  propositions,  and 
had  endeavored  to  sustain  them,  both  from  the  pulpit 
and  the  press,  tb'^y  had  expelled  him  from  the  Church. 
From  this  solemn  decision  he  had  appealed  to  this  Ge- 
neral Conference,  where  he  appeared  in  his  own  de- 
fence, and  was  allowed  to  vindicate  his  views  to  his 
entire  satisfaction,  it  being  stated  in  the  journal  of  the 
General  Conference  that  "he  considered  the  case  as 
having  been  fairly  represented,  ar*d  that  hehad  nothing 
in  particular  to  add." 

The  respondent  to  Mr.  Randell,  on  behalf  of  the 
New-England  conference,  was  the  Rev.  Wilbur  Fisk, 
whose  able  argument  carried  a  full  conviction  to  the 
judgments  of  all,  with  one  solitary  exception,  that  the 
above  propositions  contained  doctrines  adverse  to  tlie 
doctrines  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  and  that 
the  proceedings  of  the  New-England  conference  on  the 
case  had  been  legal  and  orderly.  After  a  full,  and,  as 
was  acknowledged  by  the  defendant  himself,  an  impar- 
tial examination  and  hearing  of  the  case,  the  decree  of 
the  New-England  conference  was  affirmed  by  a  vote  of 
one  hundred  and  sixty-four  oiu  of  one  hundred  and 
sixty-five  wJio  were  present  and  voted  on  the  question, 
two  members,  at  their  own  request,  being  excused  from 
voting  either  way. 

It  appears  that  Pishop  Hedding  had  been  misrepre- 
sented in  a  paper  published  by  the  Reformers,  called 
"  Mutual  Rights."  This  arose  out  of  an  address  which 
he  delivered  to  the  Pittsburgh  conference,  in  Washinj:;- 
ton,  Pa.,  August  22d,  VS2%  on  the  duty  of  its  members 
in  reference  to  the  discussions  with  which  some  portions 
of  the  Church  were  then  much  agitated  on  thn  subject 

^Z*  „    ^k..../>k  w^fr^vrtn    *\\ar*  in  <</\n«Anrtnlotion  \}V  A   niJITlh^r 


1638.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


387 


of  individuals.      This  address,  which  gave  offence  to 
those  who  were  in  favor  of  tlie  proposed  measures  of  the 
"Reformers,"  so  called,  had  Iwen  reported  by  one  of  tlie 
members  of  said  conference,  in  the  "Mutual  Rights," 
and  sentiments  imputed  to  Bisliop  Hedding  which  he 
disavowed,  as  injurious  to  his  cliaractcr.     He  had  ac- 
cordingly written  to  the  "Mutual  Rights,"  contradicting 
the  slanderous  misrepresentation,  and  demanding  repa- 
ration.    This  not  being  satisfactorily  done  by  the  of- 
fending brother,  the  bishop  felt  it  to  be  his  duty  to 
present  the  subject  to  this  General  Conference,  and  to 
request  that  it  might  be  investigated ;  and  hence  the 
whole  afTair  was  referred  to  the  committee  on  the  epis-  , 
copacy,  before  whom  the  bishop,  the  writer  of  the  offen- 
sive article,  and  the  delegates  of  the  Pittsburgh  confer- 
ence appeared ;  and  after  a  full  examination  of  the 
entire  subject,  they  came  to  the  following  conclusion  :~ 
That,  after  an  interview  with  the  person  who  wrote  the 
article  in  the  "  Mutual  Rights,"  and  the  delegates  of  the 
Pittsburgh  conference,  in  whose  presence  the  bisliop 
had  delivered  the  address  respecting  which  the  offensive 
article  had  been  written,  and  hearing  all  that  could  be 
said  by  the  parties  concerned,  it  was  believed  that  the 
writer  had  injuriously  ini^represented  Bishop  Hedding 
in  what  he  nad  published.     This  the  writer  himself, 
after  hearing  the  explanations  of  the  bishop,  frankly 
acknowledged,  and  acquiesced  in  the  decision  of  the 
committee  respecting  its  injustice,  and  the  propriety  of 
making  reparation  by  |)ublishing  the  report  of  the  com- 

niitlee,  which  report  concludes  in  these  words: "That 

the  address  of  Bishop  Hedding,  as  recollected  by  him- 
self and  the  delegates  of  tlie  Pittsburgh  annual  confer- 
sncc,  not  only  was  not  deserving  of  censure,  but  such 


388 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1828. 


as  the  circumstances  of  the  case  rendered  it  his  official 
duty  to  deliver." 

As  an  act  of  justice  to  Bishop  Hedding,  the  entire  re- 
port, as  adopted  by  the  conference,  was  published  in  the 
Christian  Advocate  and  Journal,  and  may  be  seen  in 
that  paper  for  May  30,  1828. 

Another  subject  of  a  more  general  character,  and  of 
no  little  importance,  came  up  for  consideration  before 
this  conference.  We  have  already  seen  that  the  Ca- 
nada brethren  had  manifested  much  dissatisfaction  on 
account  of  the  relation  which  they  sustained  to  us,  and 
the  desire  they  had  manifested  at  times  to  become  inde- 
.pendent.  This  desire,  however,  did  not  arise  out  of 
any  dissatisfaction  with  the  conduct  of  the  brethren  in 
the  United  States  toward  them,  but  chiefly  from  the 
opposition  evinced  by  statesmen  in  Upper  Canada  to 
their  being  subject  to  the  control  of  a  foreign  ecclesias- 
tical head,  over  which  the  civil  luthorities  of  Canada 
could  exercise  no  jurisdiction ;  and  as  most  of  the 
preachers  in  Canada  were  formerly  from  the  United 
States,  and  all  of  them  subject  to  an  ecclesiastical  juris- 
diction in  another  nation,  it  was  contended  by  the  Ca- 
nadian authorities  that  they  had  no  sufficient  guarantee 
for  their  allegiance  to  the  crown  of  Great  Britain,  and 
to  the  civil  regulations  of  Canada ;  and  hence  the  Me- 
thodist ministers  in  Canada  had  suffered  civil  disabili- 
ties, and  had  not  been  allowed  to  celebrate  the  rites  of 
matrimony,  not  even  for  their  own  members. 

These  arguments,  and  others  of  a  similar  character, 
had  induced  the  Canada  conference,  which  assembled 
in  Hallowell,  in  1824,  when  Bishops  George  and  Red- 
ding were  both  with  them,  to  memorialize  the  several 


k  •%«r%i«n1 


kTA*«^*% 


C££^1£V.S1AI    WU2  wi  wX2V^;i3    212.    ^££V     \^*  ZXa^^T^ 


in    #Ka    YTvft«fA/1      Q.4*%4Ati     r\ir\    #VkA    ailKlPrl 


J4i     •tiZS.'Lr    T-7Tf 


[1828. 
ed  it  his  official 

ig,  the  entire  re- 
published in  the 
nay  be  seen  in 

baracter,  and  of 
ideration  before 
m  that  the  Ca- 
issatisfaction  on 
lined  to  us,  and 
to  become  inde- 
lot  arise  out  of 
the  brethren  in 
jhiefly  from  the 
)per  Canada  to 
oreign  ecclesias- 
ities  of  Canada 
IS  most  of  the 
om  the  United 
:lesiastical  juris- 
ided  by  the  Ca- 
icient  guarantee 
?at  Britain,  and 
[  hence  the  Me- 
;d  civil  disabili- 
)rate  the  rites  of 
ibers. 

milar  character, 
hich  assembled 
eorge  and  Hed- 
ilize  the  several 


1828.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


389 


of  establishing  an  independent  church  in  Upper  Ca- 
nada, requesting  them  to  recommend  the  measure  to 
this  General  Conference.  Accordingly,  the  subject 
came  up  at  this  time  by  a  memorial  from  the  Canada 
conference,  which  was  presented  by  its  delegates,  and 
referred  to  a  committee. 

The  deliberations  of  the  conference  resulted  in  the 
adoption  of  the  following  preamble  and  report : — 

"  Whereas  the  Canada  annual  conference,  situated  in 
the  province  of  Upper  Canada,  under  a  foreign  govern- 
ment, have,  in  their  memorial,  presented  to  this  conference 
the  disabilities  under  which  they  labor,  in  consequence  of 
their  union  with  a  foreign  ecclesiastical  government,  and 
setting  forth  their  desire  to  be  set  off  as  a  separate  church 
establishment :  and  whereas  this  General  Conference  dis- 
claim all  right  to  exercise  ecclesiastical  jurisdiction  under 
such  circumstances,  except  by  mutual  agreement  :— 

"  1.  Resolved,  therefore,  by  the  delegates  of  the  annual 
conferences  in  General  Conference  assembled,  that  the 
compact  existing  between  the  Canada  annual  conference 
and  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  the  United  States 
be,  and  hereby  is,  dissolved  by  mutual  consent. 

"  2.  That  our  superintendents  or  superintendent  be,  and 
hereby  are,  respectfully  advised  and  requested  to  ordain 
such  person  as  may  be  elected  by  the  Canada  conference 
a  superintendent  for  the  Canada  connection. 

"  3.  That  we  do  hereby  recommend  to  our  brethren  in 
Canada  to  adopt  the  form  of  government  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  in  the  United  States,  with  such  modifi- 
cations as  their  particular  relations  shall  render  necessary. 

"  4.  That  we  do  hereby  express  to  our  Canada  brethren 
our  sincere  desire  that  the  most  friendly  feeling  may  exist 
between  them  and  the  connection  of  the  Methodist  Epis- 
— -|--^!  -^iiuitxz  iji  iuv  U2UICU  ciaies. 


I*'. 


m 


■»?' 


'iff 


390  A  HISTORY  OF  THE  [1828. 

"  5.  That  the  claims  of  the  Canada  conference  on  our 
Book  Concern  and  chartered  fund,  and  any  other  claims 
they  may  suppose  they  justly  have,  shall  be  left  open  for 
future  negotiation  and  adjustment  between  the  two  con- 
nections." 

It  was  afterward  resolved  that  the  managers  of  our 
Missionary  Society  should  be  allowed  to  appropriate  the 
sum  of  seven  hundred  dollars  annually  for  the  support 
of  the  Indian  missions  in  Upper  Canada. 

There  is  an  important  principle  involved  in  the  above 
agreement  to  dissolve  the  connection  which  had  so  long 
subsisted  between  the  Methodists  in  the  United  States 
and  Upper  Canada,  which  it  seems  expedient  to  ex- 
plain. When  the  subject  first  came  up  for  considera- 
tion it  was  contended,  and  the  committee  to  whom  it 
was  first  referred  so  reported,  which  report  was  approved 
of  by  a  vote  of  the  General  Conference,  that  we  had 
no  constitutional  right  to  set  off  the  brethren  in  Upper 
Canada  as  an  independent  body,  because  the  terms  of 
the  compact  by  which  we  existed  as  a  General  Confer- 
ence made  it  obligatory  on  us,  as  a  delegated  body,  to 
preserve  the  union  entire,  and  not  to  break  up  the 
Church  into  separate  fragments.  Hence,  to  grant  the 
prayer  of  the  memorialists,  by  a  solemn  act  of  legisla- 
tion, would  be  giving  sanction  to  a  principle,  and  setting 
a  precedent  for  future  General  Conferences,  of  a  dan- 
gerous character — of  ouch  a  character  as  might  tend 
ultimately  to  the  dissolution  of  the  ecclesiastical  body, 
which  would  be,  in  fact  and  form,  contravening  the 
very  object  for  which  we  were  constituted  a  delegated 
conference,  this  object  being  a  preservation,  and  not  a 
destruction  or  dissolution  of  the  union.  These  argu- 
ments appeared  so  forcible  to  the  first  committee,  and  to 
3 


[1828. 

nference  on  our 
,ny  other  claims 
be  left  open  for 
n  the  two  con- 

tanagers  of  our 
appropriate  the 
for  the  support 

• 

ed  in  the  above 
ich  had  so  long 

United  States 
cpedient  to  ex- 
p  for  considera- 
;ee  to  whom  it 
rt  was  approved 
s,  that  we  had 
thren  in  Upper 
36  the  terms  of 
jreneral  Confer- 
egated  body,  to 
I  break  up  the 
;e,  to  grant  the 
1  act  of  legisla- 
iple,  and  setting 
nces,  of  a  dan- 

as  might  tend 
iesiastical  body, 
>ntravening  the 
ted  a  delegated 
tion,  and  not  a 
I.  These  argu- 
»mmittee,  and  to 


1828.J 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


391 


the  conference,  that  the  idea  of  granting  them  a  sepa- 
rate organization  on  the  principle  of  abstract  and  inde- 
pendent legislation  was  abandoned  as  altogether  inde- 
fensible, being  contrary  to  the  constitutional  compact. 

But  still  feeling  a  desire  to  grant,  in  some  way,  that 
which  the  Canada  brethren  so  earnestly  requested,  and 
for  which  they  pleaded  with  much  zeal,  and  even  with 
most  pathetic  appeals  to  our  sympathies,  it  was  sug- 
gested by  a  very  intelligent  member  of  the  General 
Conference, 'the  late  Bishop  Emory,  that  the  preachers 
who  went  to  Canada  from  the  United  States  went  in 
the  first  instance  as  missionaries,  and  that  ever  after- 
ward, whenever  additional  help  was  needed,  Bishop 
Asbury  and  his  successors  asked  for  volunteers^  not 
claiming  the  right  to  send  them,  in  the  same  authori- 
tative manner  in  which  they  were  sent  to  the  different 
parts  of  the  United  States  and  territories ;  hence  it  fol- 
lowed that  the  compact  between  us  and  our  brethren  in 
Canada  was  altogether  of  a  voluntary  character — we 
had  offered  them  our  services,  and  they  had  accepted 
them — and  therefore,  as  the  time  had  arrived  when 
they  were  no  longer  willing  to  receive  or  accept  of  our 
labors  and  superintendence,  they  had  .  perfect  right  to 
request  us  to  withdraw  our  services,  and  we  the  same 
right  to  withhold  them. 

This  prei^ented  the  subject  in  a  new  and  very  clear 
light,  and  it  seemed  perfectly  compatible  with  our  pow- 
ers as  a  delegated  conference,  and  their  privileges  as  a 
part  of  the  same  body,  thus  connected  by  a  voluntary 
and  conditional  compact,  either  expressed  or  implied^ 
to  dissolve  the  connection  subsisting  between  us,  with- 
out any  dereli<;(JQ|i  of  duty  or  forfeiture  of  privilege  on 


392 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1828. 


If 


1^ 


ll 


either  part.     It  was  on  this  principle  almie  that  the 
above  agreement  was  based. 

It  will  be  perceived,  therefore,  that  this  mutual  agree- 
ment to  dissolve  the  conij^ection  heretofore  subsisting 
between  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  the  United 
States  and  the  Canada  conference  cannot,  with  justice, 
be  pleaded  for  setting  off  any  one  conference  or  any 
number  of  annual  conferences  in  the  United  States,  as 
their  relations  to  each  other  and  to  the  General  Confer- 
ence are  quite  dissimilar  to  that  which  bound  the  Canada 
conference  to  us.  The  conferences  in  the  United  States 
are  all  bound  together  by  one  sacred  compact,  and  the 
severing  any  one  from  the  main  body  would  partake 
of  the  same  suicidal  character  as  to  sever  a  sound  limb 
from  the  body.  The  General  Conference  has  no  right, 
no  authority,  thus  "  to  scatter,  tear,  and  slay"  the  body 
which  they  are  solemnly  bound  to  keep  together,  to 
nourish,  to  protect,  and  to  preserve  in  one  harmonious 
whole.  If  an  annual  conference  declare  itself  independ- 
ent, out  of  the  pale  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church, 
it  is  its  own  act  exclusively,  and  therefore  the  responsi- 
bility rests  upon  itself  alone,  for  which  the  General 
Conference  cannot  be  held  accountable,  because  it  was 
not  a  participant  in  the  separation.  I  do  not  say  that 
the  General  Conference  may  not  disown  an  annual 
conference,  should  it  become  corrupt  in  doctrine,  in 
moral  discipline,  or  in  reUgious  practice.  Should,  for 
instance,  an  annual  conference,  by  an  act  of  the  ma- 
jority of  its  members,  abjure  any  of  our  essential  doc- 
trines, such  as  the  atonement  of  Christ,  or  justification 
by  faith,  or  should  renounce  the  sacrament  of  baptism 
or  the  Lord's  supper,  or  strike  frona  its  ^noral  code  any 
of  the  precepts  of  morality  recognized  in  our  general 


1828.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


393 


rules,  it  might  become  the  duty  of  the  General  Confer- 
ence to  interpose  its  high  authority,  and  cut  off,  or  at 
least  to  withdraw  its  fellowship  from,  the  offending 
members.     Yet  such  an  act  of  excision,  or  of  disnatu- 
ralization,  if  I  may  so  call  it,  could  be  justified  only  as 
a  dernier  resort,  when  all  other  means  had  failed  to 
reclaim  the  delinquents  from  their  wanderings— just  as 
the  surgeon's  knife  is  to  be  withheld  until  mortification 
endangers  the  life  of  the  patient,  when  death  or  ampu- 
tation becomes  the  sole  alternative.    How  else  can  the 
Church  be  preserved — supposing  such  a  case  of  delin- 
quency to  exfst— from  a  general  putrefaction?    For  if 
a  majority  of  an  annual  conference  become  heterodox 
in  doctrine,  or  morally  corrupt  '.a  practice,  the  minority 
cannot  control  them,  cannot  call  them  to  an  account, 
condemn,  and  expel  them.     And  in  this  case,  must  the 
majority  of  the  annual  conferences,  and  perhaps  also  a 
respectable  minority  of  that  very  annual  conference,  be 
compelled  to  hold  these  apostates  from  truth  and  right- 
eousness in  the  bosom  of  their  fellowship,  to  treat  them 
in  all   respects  as  brethren  beloved,  and  publicly  to 
recognize  them  as  such  in  their  public  and  authorized 
documents?     This  would  be  a  hard  case  indeed  !  an 
alternative  to  which  no  ecclesiastical  body  should  be 
compelled  to  submit. 

These  remarks  are  made  to  prevent  any  misconcep- 
tion respecting  the  principle  on  which  the  above  con- 
nection was  dissolved,  and  to  show  that  it  forms  no 
precedent  for  a  dissolution  of  the  connection  now  sub- 
sisting between  the  annual  and  General  Conferences  in 
the  United  States.  Analogical  arguments,  to  be  con- 
clusive, must  be  drawn  from  analogous  facts  or  circum- 
stances,   and     nnt    frnm     fnntraat      nr    r\r\nr\c,inrT     fa^*^    ^y 


\l^' 


I!.' 


i 


394 


▲   HISTORY   OF   THB 


[1828. 


circumstances.  And  the  relation  subsisting  between 
the  annual  conferences  in  the  United  States  to  each 
other,  and  between  them  and  the  General  Conference, 
stands  in  contrast  with  the  relation  which  did  subsist 
between  the  Canada  and  the  General  Conference ;  and 
therefore  no  analc^ical  argument  can  be  drawn  from 
the  mutual  agreement  by  which  this  relation  was  dis- 
solved in  favor  of  dissolving  the  connection  now  sub- 
sisting between  the  annual  conferences  in  the  United 
States,  by  a  solemn  act  of  legislation  on  the  part  of  the 
General  Conference,  except  for  the  reasons  above  as- 
signed ;  and  those  reasons,  let  it  be  remembered,  make 
the  contrast  still  greater  between  the  two  acts,  and 
justify  the  difference  of  the  procedure ;  for  the  dissolu- 
tion of  the  compact  between  us  and  the  Canada  bre- 
thren from  the  jurisdiction  only.  Christian  fellowship 
still  subsisting — while  the  supposed  act  of  excision 
would  be  a  withdrawing  of  Christian  fellowship  from 
the  offending  members. 

There  were  also  other  great  principles  of  ecclesiastical 
economy  involved  in  the  above  resolutions,  which  it 
may  be  well  to  develop  and  dwell  upon  for  a  moment. 

It  has  been  seen  that  the  General  Conference  autho- 
rized our  bishops,  or  any  one  of  them,  to  ordain  a  bishop 
for  Upper  Canada.  It  was  also  provided  that  if  such 
bishop  should  be  so  ordained  his  episcopal  jurisdiction 
should  be  limited  to  Canada — that  he  should  not  be 
allowed  to  exercise  his  functions  in  the  United  States. 
In  favor  of  both  of  these  positions,  namely,  the  ordain- 
ing a  bishop  for  Canada,  and  then  restricting  him  in 
his  episcopal  functions  to  that  country,  or  the  not  allow- 
ing him  to  exercise  them  in  the  United  States,  the 
following  precedents  were  adduced : — 
3 


1828.]  METHODIST   iiPISCOPAL    CHURCii.  395 

It  was  pleaded  that  the  bishops  of  England  ordained 
bishops  for  the  United  States  exclusively :  that  when 
Wesley  and  others  ordained  Dr.  Coke,  it  was  only  for 
the  United  States :  and  hence  neither  of  these  function- 
aries was  allowed  to  exercise  his  episcopal  powers  in 
Great  Britain.     Here,  then,  were  precedents,  from  our 
own  and  another  church,  both  for  consecrating  men  for 
other  countries,  and  for  restricting  them,  in  the  exercise 
of  their  official  duties,  to  the  countries  for  which  they 
were  designated  in  their  certificates  of  ordination.     It 
was  furthermore  stated— and  truly  too— that  when  it 
was  contemplated  to  consecrate  the  late  Rev.  Freeborn 
Garrettson  a  bishop  for  Nova  Scotia  and  the  West  In- 
dies, it  was  proposed  to  withhold  from  him  the  privilege 
of  being  a  bishop,  by  virtue  of  that  election  and  conse- 
cration, in  the  United  States. 

And  as  to  ordaining  men  for  foreign  countries,  on 
special  occasions,  church  history  was  full  of  examples, 
all  which  might  be  adduced  as  sound  precedents  for  the 
luthority  conferred  upon  our  bishops  in  regard  to 
ordaining  a  man  on  whom  the  choice  of  the  Canada 
conference  might  fall  for  their  superintendent. 

There  was  one  other  subject  disposed  of  at  this  con- 
ference, more  important,  in  many  respects,  than  either 
of  those  already  mentioned,  inasmuch  as  it  involved 
principles  and  measures  which  must,  had  they  been 
carried  into  effect,  have  produced  a  radical  change  in 
both  the  legislative  and  executive  departments  of  our 
church  government,  and  were  therefore  considered  revo- 
lutionary  in  their  character  and  tendency. 

That  this  subject  may  be  placed  in  such  a  point  of 
light  as  to  be  clearly  understood,  it  is  necessary  to  enter 
into  some  historical  details. 


v 


i 


■ 


396  A    HISTORY    OF   THE  [1828. 

We  have  already  seen  that  there  had  been  consider- 
able uneasiness   manifested  in  some  portions  of  our 
Church  on  the  subject  of  a  lay  representation  in  tlie 
General  Conference.     At  first  the  discussions  upon  this 
subject  were  confined  to  private  circles,  though  some  of 
the  traveling  and  more  of  the  local  preachers,  as  well 
as  a  few  of  the  lay  members,  had  been  and  were  now 
of  the  opinion  that  such  a  representation  ought  to  be 
granted.     At  length,  however,  those  who  were  most 
zealous  for  this  measure  commenced  a  periodical  publi- 
cation, called  the  "Wesleyan  Repository,"  in  which 
they  began,  at  first  with  apparent  moderation,  to  dis- 
cuss the  principle  of  lay  representation.     The  head- 
quarters of  this  publication,  which  was  commenced  in 
1820,  were  Trenton,  in  the  state  of  New- Jersey ;  and 
though  its  editor  was  known,  the  greater  portion  of  its 
writers  appeared  under  the  mask  of  fictitious  signatures, 
by  which  they  eluded  individual  responsibility.     The 
strictures  upon  our  church  government,  which  became 
uncommonly  severe,  were  more  calculated  to  irritate 
the  passions  than  to  convince  the  judgment,  and  they 
soon  degenerated  into  personal  attacks,  in  which  some 
of  our  bishops  and  chief  ministers  were  dragged  before 
the  public  in  a  way  to  injure  their  character,  and  con- 
sequently to  circumscribe  their  usefulness.     And  though 
we  had  a  monthly  periodical,  it  was  thought,  by  the 
most  judicious  among  our  ministers  and  people,  that  its 
columns  ought  not  to  be  occupied  with  such  a  thriftless 
controversy,  much  less  as  the  writers  in  the  Re|K)sitory 
lay  concealed  beneath  fictitious  signatures ;  and  more- 
over, instead  of  sober  argument,  they  frequently  resorted 
to  biting  sarcasm,  to  personal  criminations,  and  to  a 
caricature  of  some  of  those  institutions  which  we,  as  a 
3 


1828.]  METHODIST  EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  397 

church,  hud  long  held  sacred.  Though  it  was  believed 
that  most  of  the  writers  in  the  Repository  were  local 
preachers  and  laymen,  yet  it  was  known  that  several 
of  the  traveling  preachers  themselves  were  favorable  to 
the  proposed  innovation,  and  therefore  lent  the  weight 
of  their  influence  in  its  behalf  by  writing  occasionally 
for  its  columns. 

With  a  view  to  concentrate  their  strength  and  har- 
monize their  views  as  much  as  possible,  the  friends  of 
the  innovating  measures  formed  a  «  Union  Society"  in 
the  city  of  Baltimore,  elected  officers  and  a  committee 
of  correspondence,  inviting  all  who  were  with  them  in 
sentiment  to  form  auxiliary  societies  throughout  the 
country,  that  there  might  be  a  general  co-operation 
among  the  advocates  of  lay  representation. 

Things  went  on  in  this  way  until  near  the  meeting 
of  the  General  Conference  in  1824,  when  the  male 
members  of  the  Church  in  the  city  of  Baltimore,  which 
had  now  become  the  center  of  operations  for  the  «  Re- 
formers,"* with  a  view  to  allay,  if  possible,  the  heat  of 
party  spirit,  were  called  together  for  the  purpose  of  at- 
tempting to  effect  a  compromise.  This  effort  grew  out 
of  the  fact  that  there  were  many  conflicting  opinions 
among  those  who  were  favorable  to  "reform,"  and  a 
strong  desire  among  the  warm  friends  of  the  Church  to 

♦  This  being  the  name  by  which  those  brethren  chose  to 
designate  themselves,  I  have  used  it  as  a  term  of  distinction 
without  allowing  that  they  were  in  reality  refoTmera,  eithe; 
in  or  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  To  reform  is  to 
make  better ;  and  they  seem  to  have  become  convinced 
themselves  of  the  inappropriateness  of  the  term,  by  dropninff 
It,  and  substituting  in  its  place  Protestant  Methodists,  implv- 
ing,  that  though  they  could  not  reform  us-that  is,  liiake  us 
6««cr-they  could  at  It^i  protest  against  our  peculiarities. 

8 


398 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1828. 


If" 


1^= 


II- 


Mli 


avert  the  calamities  of  a  separation,  which  they  saw 
must  inevitably  result  from  this  feverish  excitement, 
unless  some  pacific  measures  could  be  adopted  to  cool  it 
down.  In  this  meeting  it  was  proposed,  as  the  basis  of 
the  compromise,  to  memorialize  the  General  Conference 
on  the  subject  of  a  lay  delegation,  provided  the  question 
of  a  riffht  to  such  representation  were  waived,  and  the 
privilege  should  be  asked  on  the  ground  of  expediency 
alone.  This  was  assented  to  by  the  leading  men  among 
the  "  Reformers,"  and  a  memorial  was  accordingly  pre- 
pared in  accordance  with  these  views,  the  part  relating 
jto  lay  representation  being  expressed  in  the  following 
words : — 

"  Under  these  views  we  have  been  led  to  turn  our  atten- 
tion to  the  subject  of  a  lay  delegation  to  the  General  Con- 
ference. In  presenting  this  subject  to  your  consideration, 
we  would  waive  all  that  might  be  urged  on  the  natural  or 
abstract  right  of  the  membership  to  this  privilege.  We 
are  content  to  admit  that  all  governments,  whether  civil  or 
ecclesiastical,  ought  to  be  founded,  not  on  considerations 
growing  out  of  abstract  rights,  but  on  expediency,  that  being 
always  the  right  government  which  best  secures  the  inte- 
rests of  the  whole  community.  With  regard  to  the  expe- 
diency of  the  measure,  then,  we  may  urge  that  such  a 
delegation  would  bring  into  the  conference  much  informa- 
tion with  regard  to  the  temporal  affairs  of  the  Church 
which  the  ministry  cannot  well  be  supposed  to  possess. 
They  wcul'  ^"eel  less  delicacy  in  originating  and  proposing 
measurCf^  hp  Cr  relief  of  ;he  preachers'  families  than  the 
preachers  themselves,  as  they  could  not  be  subjected 
thereby  to  the  imputation  of  interested  motives,  and  they 
wdlild,  by  being  distributed  everywhere  among  the  mem- 
bership, aid,  by  their  personal  exertions  and  influence,  the 
success  of  such  measures,  and  awaken,  more  generally 
3 


1828.]  METHODMT    EPISCOPAL   CHURCH.  899 

than  has  hitherto  been  done,  the  attention  of  the  Methodist 
community  to  the  great  interests  of  the  Church 

"  We  are  aware  of  the  constitutional  objections  to  this 
change  in  our  economy.     We  know  that  you  are  clearly 
prohibited,  by  the  very  first  article  of  the  constitution  under 
which  you  act,  from  adding  to  the  conference  any  delega 
lion  not  provided  for  in  that  rule  ;  but  we  believe  that  an 
opmion  expressed  by  the  conference,  and  approved  by  the 
episcopacy,  would  induce  the  annual  conferences  to  make 
the  necessary  alteration  in  the  constitution :  and  we  sub- 
rait  the  consideration  of  the  whole  matter  to  the  calm  and 
deliberate  attention  which  we  are  persuaded  its  importance 
demands,  and  which  we  do  not  doubt  it  will  receive 
determined  cheerfully  and .  cordially  to  submit  to  your 
decision."  ^ 

During  the  session  of  the  conference  in  May  1824 
8ome  of  the  "Reformers,"  becoming  dissatisfied  with  the 
principles  of  the  compromise,  formed  a  separate  society, 
and  claimed  a  representation  in  the  General  Conference 
as  ^natural  and  social  right,  deprecating  its  rejection 
by  the  General  Conference  as  an  evidence  of  a  spiritual 
despotism  utterly  unworthy  the  character  of  the  minis- 
try of  Jesus  Christ.     To  effect  their  objects  with  the 
greater  certainty,  they  immediately  issued  proposals  for 
establishing  a  new  periodical,  called  «  Mutual  Rights  " 
Us  title  being  well  calculated  to  impress  the  unwarV 
reader  with  the  erroneous  idea,  so  much  harped  upon  in 
those  days  of  agitation,  that  the  «  Reformers"  were  the 
exclusive  advocates  of  the  "rights"  of  the  lay  members 
01  our  Church. 

The  formation  of  these  societies,  and  the  publication 
of  this  periodical,  in  which  most  inflammatory  declama- 
tions were  poured  forth  against  our  ministry  and  esta- 

3 


400 


A    HISTORY  OF    THE 


[1828. 


11 


blished  usages,  were  considered,  by  the  more  sober  and 
thinking  pan  of  our  community,  as  incorporating  the 
very  schism  in  the  Church  which  they  deprecated  as 
one  of  the  worst  evils  with  wliich  it  could  be  afflicted, 
except,  indeed,  its  inundation  by  inmiorality.  The 
fate,  however^  of  those  measures,  so  far  as  the  General 
Conference  was  concerned,  has  been  seen  in  the  account 
given  of  the  doings  6(  the  General  Conference  in  1824. 
The  prayer  of  the  memorialists  was  rejected,  and  the 
ground  of  ris^ht  to  a  lay   ^presentation  denied. 

It  is  not  necessary  to  trace  the  history  of  this  unplea- 
sant adair,  in  all  its  minutia'  and  various  ramifications: 
over  dilferent  parts  of  the  country,  from  that  time  until 
the  secession  was  fully  consummated,  and  a  separate 
comnnmity  established.  Suffice  it  therefore  to  say,  that 
matters  went  on  from  bad  to  worse,  until  it  became 
necessary,  in  the  opinion  of  those  who  watched  over  the 
Church  in  Baltimore,  to  save  it  and  its  institutions  from 
dissolution,  to  call  the  rnalecontents  to  an  account  for 
their  conduct. 

At  the  Baltimore  conference,  in  1827,  the  Rev.  D. 
B.  Dorsey,  who  had  connected  himself  with  the  "  Re- 
formers," was  arraigned  before  his  conference  for  recom- 
mending and  circulating  the  "Mutual  Rights;"  and 
during  the  course  of  his  trial  he  avowed  such  principles, 
and  made  such  declarations  respecting  his  independent 
rights,  as  could  not  be  approved  of  by  tlie  conference ; 
and  they  therefore  requested,  as  the  mildest  punishment 
they  could  intllrt,  the  bishop  to  leave  him  without  au 
appointment  for  one  year.  From  this  decision  he  took 
an  appeal  to  the  General  Conference ;  but,  instead  of 
waiting  patiently  until  this  ultimate  decision  could  be 
h&A.  he  loudly  censured  the  acts  of  the  Baltimore  con- 
8 


1 1 


[1828. 

tiore  sober  and 
jorporating  the 

deprecated  aa 
Id  he  afflicted, 
lorality.  The 
as  the  General 

ill  the  account 
irence  in  1824. 
jected,  and  the 
enied. 

of  this  unplea- 
s  ramifications! 
that  time  until 
ind  a  separate 
fore  to  say,  that 
mtil  it  became 
atched  over  the 
istitutions  from 
an  account  for 

7,  the  Rev.  D. 
with  the  "  Rc- 
ence  for  recoin- 

Rij^hts;"  and 
such  principles, 
lis  independent 
the  conference ; 
est  puniHhment 
him  without  au 
lecision  he  took 

but,  instead  of 
icision  could  be 

Baltimore  con- 


1828.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  401 

ference  in  reference  to  his  case,  through  the  columns  of 
"Mutual  Rights,"  thus  apjH3aling  from  the  constituted 
autlionties  of  the  Church  to  the  ppular  voice,  invoking 
from  this  very  equivocal  tribunal  a  decision  in  his  favor. 
All  this  had  a  tendency  to  widen  the  breach,  and  to 
make  a  reconciliation  the  more  hofieless. 

One  of  the  leading  champions  of  this  "  reform"  was 
the  Rev.  Nicholas  Snethen,  who  had  been  a  very  useful 
and  infiuential  traveling  preacher  for  many  years,  but 
was  now  located,  and  lived  in  the  neighU)rhood  of  Bal- 
timore.    He  was  recognized  as  the  writer  of  several 
articles,  under  fictitious  signatures,  in  the  «  Wesleyan 
Repository"  and   ''Mutual  Rights,"  in  which  severe 
strictures  were  made  ujwn  our  economy;    and  now, 
since  action  had  commenced  against  the  malecontents 
m  the  Baltimore  conference,  by  which  it  was  foreseen 
that  others,  implicated  in  the  same  warfare  against  the 
authorities  and  usages  of  the  Church,  would  be  called 
to  answer  for  their  conduct,  Mr.  Snethen  avowed  him- 
self  the  autl  .:  of  these  pieces,  vauntingly  placed  him- 
self in  front  of  the  reforming  ranks,  shouting,  "Onward ! 
brethren ;  onward !"  pledging  himself  to  sufTer  or  tri- 
umph with  them-thus  exhibiting  a  spirit  of  moral 
heroism  worthy  of  a  better  cause,  and  more  befitting 
other  times  than  those  which  called  only  for  a  bloodleos 
warfare. 

This  conduct,  however,  brought  forth  a  champion 
from  the  ranks  of  the  local  preachers,  who,  as  he  him- 
self acknowledged,  had  been  friendly  to  some  slight 
changes  in  the  structure  of  our  church  government, 
provided  such  changes  should  be  thought  exj)edient  by 
the  General  Conference,  and  could  l3e  elFectcd  by  pacific 

measures.  Wlfhnnf  nrruliK^inn.  r,  i..:_„    ;_    .1       •      1 


26 


8 


402 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1828 


r 


He  had  long  been  an  intimate  and  personal  friend  of 
Mr.  Snethen,  and  therefore  it  was  with  some  reluctance 
that  he  yielded  to  the  paramount  duty  of  sacrificing  his 
personal  friendship  for  the  purpose  of  defending  the 
"  ancient  landmarks,"  and  of  placing  himself  in  opposi- 
tion to  the  innovations  in  contemplation  by  the  "  Re- 
formers."   I  allude  to  Doctor  Thomas  E.  Bond,  of 
Baltimore.    In  1827  he  published  his  "  Appeal  to  the 
Methodists,  in  Opposition  to  the  Changes  proposed  in 
their  Church  Government,"  which  was  prefaced  by  an 
epistolary  dedication  to  the  Rev.   Nicholas  Snethen. 
This  appeared  to  take  Mr.  Snethen  and  his  friends  by 
surprise,  as  they  seemed  to  expect  least  of  all  such  an 
appeal  from  the  source  whence  it  came,  while  it  acted 
as  a  charm  upon  the  minds  of  those  who  loved  the  insti- 
tutions and  prayed  for  the  perpetual  union  and  pros- 
perity of  the  Church.     The  able  manner  in  which  Dr. 
Bond  treated  the  subject,  and  refuted  the  arguments 
and  exposed  the  pretensions  of  the  "  Reformers,"  showed 
that  he  had  thoroughly  digested  the  questions  at  issue, 
had  "  counted  the  cost,"  and  was  prepared  to  abide  the 
results  of  the  contest.    Having,  therefore,  balanced  the 
weight  of  the  arguments  for  and  against  the  proposed 
innovation,  and  fully  made  up  a  judgment  in  favor  of 
the  Church  and  its  institutions,  he  wrote  from  the  full- 
ness of  his  heart,  and  the  following  passage  from  his 
"  Appeal"  will  show  the  confident  manner  in  which  he 
anticipated  the  result  of  this  severe  and  long-protracted 
struggle.      After  giving  the  outlines  of  our  church 
government,  and  the  general  system  of  itinerant  opera- 
tions, he  introduces  the  following  spirited  remarks : — 

"  It  is  this  system  of  church  government,  so  simple  in 
its  structure  and  efficient  in  its  operation,  so  tested  by 


[1828 

onal  friend  of 
)me  reluciaDce 
sacrificing  his 
defending  the 
iself  in  opposi- 
i  by  the  "Re- 
E.  Bond,  of 
Appeal  to  the 
38  proposed  in 
)refaced  by  an 
lolas  Snethen. 
his  friends  by 
of  all  such  an 
while  it  acted 
loved  the  insti- 
lion  and  pros- 
r  in  which  Dr. 
the  arguments 
rmers,"  showed 
stions  at  issue, 
5d  to  abide  the 
e,  balanced  the 
ist  the  proposed 
ent  in  favor  of 
>  from  the  full- 
ssage  from  his 
er  in  which  he 
long-protracted 
of  our  church 
itinerant  opera- 
1  remarks : — 

nt,  so  simple  in 
n,  80  tested  by 


1828.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


403 


experience  and  justified  by  success,  and,  withal,  so  sanc- 
tified in  the  feelings  and  afl'ections  of  our  people  by  the 
endearing  associations  with  which  it  stands  connected, 
that  we  are  now  called  upon,  not  to  modify,  but  radically 
to  change;  not  to  mend  in  some  of  its  less  important 
details,  but  to  alter  in  its  fundamental  principles,  and  to 
substitute  for  it  a  speculative  scheme  of  government,  inap- 
plicable to  our  circumstances,  and  therefore  impossible  to 
be  effected ;— a  scheme  founded  on  abstract  notions  of 
natural   rights,  but   which  none   of  its   advocates  have 
attempted  to  exhibit  in  any  visible  or  tangible  shape  or 
form,  and  therefore  they  have  carefully  avoided  the  dis- 
cussion of  the  parts  most  important  in  any  system,  namely, 
its   practicability   and   expediency.     Happy   for  us,   the 
scheme  is  not  new.     In  Europe  it  has  had  its  day  of  noise 
and  strife,  and  has  ceased  to  agitate  the  Church ;  and  in 
this  country  Mr.  O'Kelly  started  it  more  than  thirty  years 
ago,  left  the  Church,  and  drew  off  several  of  the  preachers 
with  him.     He  lived  to  see  the  ruins  of  the  visionary 
fabric  he  had  labored  to  erect,  and  to  mourn  over  the  deso- 
lation which  he  had  brought  upon  that  part  of  the  vineyard, 
where,  as  a  Methodist  preacher,  he  so  faith**ully  and  use- 
fully labored,  but  which  he  had  afterward  turned  out  to  be 
ravaged  and  destroyed  by  "  republican  Methodism."     The 
formidable  phalanx  now  arrayed  against  us  may,  it  is 
feared,  do  us  much  harm,  but  we  will  taice  protection 
under  that  strong  Arm  which  has  heretofore  defended  us. 
Hitherto  our  history  has  shown  that  the  great  Head  of  the 
church  had  appointed  us  for  a  special  work  in  his  vine- 
yard, and  that  he  superintended  and  directed  the  labor, 
opening  the  way  before  our  ministry,  qualifying  and  sus- 
taining them  in  their  arduous  labois,  under  circuinstancoa 
which  would  have  discouraged  any  but  such  as   were 
assured  of  divine  support,  and  who  were  prepared  to  be« 

llAVO    in    nnna     anrainaf     Vinna  Clf'^"*    ^•^-^Ol-t... Ia^   l_ .   .. 

_  .„  ».vjj.^  «g«»MS7Sf  i»\?pe.      \jix:a.i,  vumacis  awuii  us,  uui 


mt 


fi' 


It' 

•4   " 

"I- ' 


404  A   HISTORY    OF    THE  [1828. 

out  of  all  the  Lord  will  deliver  us :  while  he  is  with  us, 
the  more  we  are  oppressed,  the  more  we  shall  multiply 
and  grow.  Let  us  be  faithful  to  our  calling— let  us  watch 
unto  prayer.  The  present  revolutionary  scheme  of  our 
disaffected  members  will  share  the  fate  of  all  the  similar 
projects  which  have  preceded  it.  Our  children  will  read 
of  it  in  history,  but,  ere  they  take  our  places  in  the  Church, 
the  troubled  waters  shall  have  heard  the  voice  of  Him 
who  says  to  the  winds  and  the  waves,  Be  still,  and  they 
obey  his  voice." 

This  strong  appeal,  written  throughout  with  a  spirit 
and  a  style  of  argument  which  did  honor  to  the  head 
and  heart  of  its  author,  exerted  a  most  salutary  influ- 
ence upon  all  who  had  not  fully  committed  themselves 
to  the  principles  and  measures  of  the  "Reformers." 
While  it  drew  the  hnes  more  distinctly  which  divided 
the  contending  parties,  it  tended  to  cement  closer  toge- 
ther those  who  had  so  long  cherished  the  institutions  of 
Methodism,  and  to  arm  them  with  weapons  of  defence. 
Hitherto  there  had  been  some  neutralises,  who  were 
looking  on,  npt  indeed  with  cold  indifference,  but  with 
an  anxious  suspense,  watching  the  result  of  the  move- 
ments, and  weighing  the  respective  arguments,  for  the 
purpse  of  forming  an  intelligent  decision.  These 
acknowledged  themselves  much  indebted  to  Dr.  Bond 
for  throwing  additional  light  upon  this  subject,  and  thus 
saving  them  from  lapsing  into  the  sickly  spirit  of  "  re- 
form :"  and  the  Appeal  doubtless  had  the  greater  weight 
for  having  been  issued  from  the  local  instead  of  the 
traveling  ministry,  because  it  was  supposed  that  the 
former  had  identified  themselves  more  generally  than 
the  latter  with  the  reforming  party. 

In  the  mean  time  a  pamphlet  had  been  issued,  as 


been  issued,  as 


1828.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  405 

was  erroneously  supposed  at  the  time  under  the  sanc- 
tion of  the  Uiiion  Society,  by  Rev.  Alexander  M'Gaine,* 
m  which  he  attempted  to  prove  that  surreptitious  means 
had  been  used  in  the  establishment  of  our  Church ; 
that  our  episcopacy  was  spurious,  gotten  up  against  the 
wishes  and  without  the  knowledge  of  Mr.  Wesley— 
thus  impugning  the  motives  and  impeaching  the  ho- 
nesty of  such'  men  as  Coke,  Aebury,  Whatcoat,  and 
all  those  venerable  men  who  composed  the  General 
Conference  of  1784.  and  assisted  in  the  organization  of 
our  Church.     This  appeared  to  be  the  climax  of  ab- 
surdities in  the  doings  of  the  adverse  party,  and  to  reveal 
designs  upon  the  integrity  and  the  very  existence  of  our 
episcopacy,  and  all  those  regulations  and  usages  which 
connected  themselves  with  that  feature  of  our  Church 
economy,  which  could  not  be  any  longer  tolerated  with 
impunity.     It  was  therefore  thought,  by  the  friends  of 
order  and  the  advocates  of  our  Church  authorities,  that 
the  time  had  fully  come  for  action— for  such  action  as 
should  test  the  solidity  of  our  ecclesiastical  structure,  and 
the  permanency  of  its  foundation. 

Indeed,  these  ungenerous  attacks  upon  the  best  of 
men,  most  of  whom  were  now  dead,  and  therefore 
could  not  speak  for  themselves,  aroused  the  spirits  of 
those  who  had  hitherto  stood  aloof  from  this  contro- 

♦  The  author  would  gladly  draw  a  veil  over  this  affair 
were  it  consistent  with  historic  truth  ;  but  Mr.  M'Caine  has 
so  linked  himself  with  this  controversy  that  it  is  not  possible 
to  narrate  the  facts  in  the  case  without  an  exposure  of  the 
absurdities  of  his  pamphlet;  and  hence  his  name  is  given  to 
the  public  in  connection  with  a  transaction  and  as  a  voucher 
for  declarations  which  have  been  as  discreditable  and  false 
as  they  were  injurious  to  the  reputation  of  some  of  the 
purest  nien  the  world  ever  saw. 

8 


406  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1828. 

versy,  and  decided  some  who  had  been  supposed  to  be 
friendly  to  tlie  spirit  of  "  reform"  against  the  measure, 
inasmucii  as  they  judged — most  conclusively,  it  is 
thought — that  a  cause  which  could  enlist  in  its  behalf 
such  unjustifiable  means  of  attack  and  defense,  cculd 
not  be  holy  and  good.  This  brought  forth  the  late 
Bishop  Emory,  who  was  at  that  time  an  assistant  liook 
agent ;  aijd  the  "  Defence  of  our  Fathers"  proved  his 
competency  to  defend  those  venerable  men  from  the 
aspersions  thrown  upon  them  by  the  author  of  the 
"  History  and  Mystery  of  Methodist  Episcopacy."  This 
masterly  defence  of  the  men  who  organized  our  Church, 
and  of  the  organization  itself,  its  principles,  measures, 
and  results,  procured  for  its  author  that  meed  of  praise 
that  is  justly  due  to  a  faithful  son  of  the  Church,  to  an 
acute  and  able  reasoner,  and  to  one  whose  industry  in 
collecting  and  arranging  facts  for  the  basis  of  his  argu- 
mentation evinced  the  depth  and  accuracy  of  his  re- 
search. This  production  was  therefore  hailed  with 
delight  by  the  friends  of  the  Church,  and  tended,  with 
some  others  of  a  similar  character,  published  about  the 
same  time,  to  prove  that  the  theory  of  the  "  Reformers" 
was  a  visionary  scheme,  indefensible  by  any  arguments 
drawn  from  Scripture,  from  the  ancient  records  of  the 
Church,  from  the  analogy  of  things,  or  from  any  im- 
proper means  used  in  either  the  organization  or  naming 
of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  This  complete  refu 
tation  of  the  groundless  assumptions  of  Mr.  M'Caine's 
book  was  read  with  great  avidity,  and  procured  for  its 
author  the  thanks  of  all  who  wished  well  to  our  Zion. 
But  while  these  things  tended  to  calm  the  fears  of  the 
timid,  to  confirm  the  wavering  in  the  truth,  and  to 
strengthen  the  hearts  of  all  who  had  heretofore  reposed 
3 


[1828. 

supposed  to  be 
the  measure, 
lusively,  it  is 
it  in  its  behalf 
defense,  cculd 
forth  the  late 
assistant  liook 
s"  proved  his 
nen  from  the 
luthor  of  the 
opacy."  This 
id  our  Church, 
les,  measures, 
leed  of  praise 
Church,  to  an 
>se  industry  in 
is  of  his  argu- 
acy  of  his  re- 
)  hailed  with 
I  tended,  with 
bed  about  the 
J  "  Reformers" 
ny  arguments 
records  of  the 
from  any  im- 
ion  or  naming 
complete  refu 
Mr.  M'Caine's 
rocured  for  its 
to  our  Zion. 
he  fears  of  the 
truth,  and  to 
Jtofore  reposed 


1828.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CL'UP.OH. 


407 


in  the  wisdom  and  integrity  of  our  fathers  in  the  gospel, 
they  by  no  means  satisfied  those  who  appeared  bent  on 
carrying  their  measures  at  all  hazards.  On  the  con- 
trary, their  leaders  seemed  to  struggle  hard  under  dis- 
appointment, and  to  redouble  their  efforts  in  rallying 
their  forces,  and  preparing  them  for  victory  or  defeat, 
whenever  the  warfare  should  terminate.  They  had 
heretofore  most  evidently  calculated  on  carrying  with 
them  many  who  now  took  a  decided  stand  against 
them.  This  was  a  source  of  severe  disappointment.* 
These  showed,  when  the  alternative  was  presented  to 
their  choice,  that  they  loved  Methodism  better  than  its 
proposed  substitute.  The  former  they  had  tried,  and 
found  savory  and  healthful ;  the  latter  was  an  untried 
experiment,  and  judging  from  the  fruit  it  had  already 
produced,  that  it  was  not  "good  to  make  one  wise," 
they  declined  the  proffered  boon  as  unworthy  of  their 
acceptance. 

But,  as  before  remarked,  things  had  arrived  at  such 
a  crisis  in  the  city  of  Baltimore  that  it  became  necessary, 
in  the  opinion  of  those  to  whom  the  oversight  of  the 

♦  In  the  second  volume  of  this  History  I  have  given  an 
account  of  the  discussions  upon  the  presiding  elder  question. 
There  is  reason  to  believe  that  the  leading  men  among  the 
"  Reformers"  calculated  largely  on  the  support  of  many,  if 
not  indeed  most  of  those  who  favored  the  election  of  presid- 
ing elders ;  and  it  is  probable  that  some  of  these  would  have 
gone  with  them  had  they  kept  within  the  bounds  of  modera- 
tion in  their  demands.  Yet  it  ought  to  be  remembered  that 
the  two  questions  had  no  necessary  connection— that  the  one 
did  not  involve  the  other— and  hence  it  is  not  surprising  that 
some  of  the  most  firm,  able,  and  successful  opposers  of  thjs 
innovation  were  among  those  who  had  favored  the  election 
of  the  presiding  elders,  and  making  them  jointly  responsible 
with  the  bishops  (qr  the  appointments  of  the  preachers. 


408 


A   HISTO'Y    OF    THE 


[1828. 

Church  was  committed,  to  call  some  of  the  most  promi- 
nent leaders  in  the  work  of  "reform"  to  an  account 
before  the  proper  tribunals.  Hence  eleven  local  preach- 
ers and  twenty-five  lay  members  were  regularly  cited 
to  appear  before  the  preacher  in  charge  of  the  Baltimore 
station,  the  Rev.  James  M.  Hanson,  to  answer  to  the 
charge  of  "  inveighing  against  our  Discipline,"  ".speak- 
ing evil  of  our  ministers,"  and  of  violating  the  rule 
"  which  prohibits  the  members  of  the  Church  from  doing 
harm,  and  requires  them  to  avoid  evil  of  every  kind." 

This  general  charge  was  amply  sustained  by  a  refer- 
ence  to  the  constitution  of  the  Union  Society,  by  nume- 
rous quotations  from  "Mutual  Rights,"  and  from  other 
sources.  The  dehnquents  were  therefore  found  guilty, 
the  local  preachers  were  suspended,  and  the  lay  mem- 
bers expelled.  While,  however,  these  transactions  were 
pending,  before  any  decision  was  had.  Dr.  Bond  once 
more  threw  himself  in  the  gap,  and  endeavored  to  avert 
the  suspended  blow  by  acting  the  part  of  a  mediator 
between  the  parties,  and,  if  possible,  thereby  to  prevent 
the  storm  from  bursting  on  their  heJids.  His  efforts, 
however,  were  unavailing ;  the  trials  proceeded,  and  the 
penalty  of  the  Discipline  wo«  linally  inflicted,  though 
with  great  reluctance,  upoix  ,  .   who  had  been 

summoned  to  trial,   with  the  =n«  of  two  lay 

members. 

One  of  the  specifications  which  was  adduced  to  sus- 
tain the  general  charge  was  their  advising  and  request- 
ing the  publication  of  the  "  History  and  Mystery  of  Me- 
thodist Episcopacy ;"  but  as  it  was  found,  on  further 
examination,  that  its  author  alone  was  responsible  for 
writing  and  publishing  that  work,  this  specification  was 
Vvithdrawn  in  reference  to  all  the  accused  except  Alex- 


i828.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL  CHURCH. 


409 


ander  M'Caine;  and  he  therefore  wag  summoned 
before  another  committee  of  local  preachers,  tried  sepa- 
rately, found  guilty,  and  accordingly  suspended. 

As  the  district  conference  of  local  preachers  had  been 
dissolved,  the  trial  of  those  who  had  been  suspended  by 
the  committee  of  inquiry  was  brought  liefore  the  quar- 
terly meeting  conference  of  the  Baltimore  station.    But 
before  the  trial  proceeded  to  an  issue,  Dr.  J.  C.  Green, 
of  Virginia,   volunteered   his  services  as  a  mediator 
between  the  parties,  and  the  trial  was  postponed  for  the 
purpose  of  giving  ample  time  to  test  the  result  of  the 
negotiation.     It  was,   however,   unavailing,  and  the 
trial  proceeded,  and  terminated  in  finding  guilty,  and 
the  consequent  expulsion,  of  the  accused  local  preach- 
ers ;  and  as  they  did  not  appeal,  as  they  might,  to  the 
annual  conference,  they  were  finally  considered   no 
longer  members  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church. 

To  the  lay  members  who  had  been  found  guilty 
before  the  act  of  expulsion  was  consummated,  and  with 
a  view,  if  possible,  to  save  himself  and  those  concerned 
from  the  sad  alternative  which  awaited  them,  Mr. 
Hanson  sent  each  of  the  persons  the  following  letter : — 

"  Baltimore,  Nov.  23,  1827. 
"  Brother  : — You  are  hereby  informed  that  the  com- 
mittee appointed  to  investigate  the  charges  and  specifica- 
tions lately  preferred  against  youa*  a  member  of  the  Unior 
Society,  have,  by  a  unanimous  decision,  found  you  guilty 
of  said  charges,  together  with  the  first  and  second  specifi 
cations. 

"Most  willingly,  my  brother,  would  I  now  dispense 
with  the  painful  duty  which  devolves  upon  me,  could  I  do 
so  as  an  honest  man,  and  without  abandoning  the  interests 
of  the  Church.     Or  had  I  cause  to  believe  that  the  course 

3 


\i  s? 


[« 


1 


it 


410  A   HISTORY    OF  THE  [1828. 

now  about  to  be  pursued  would  lead  you  to  make  suitable 
reparation  to  that  Church  whose  ministers  and  discipline 
you  have  assailed  and  misrepresented,  and  to  abstain  from 
the  like  offences  against  the  peace  and  harmony  of  said 
Church  in  future,  it  would  tend  more  than  any  other  con- 
sideration to  diminish  the  painfulness  of  the  obligation 
which  my  present  situation  imposes  upon  me.  For,  be 
assured,  whatever  my  own  opinion  may  be  in  regard  to 
the  course  you  may  have  pursued,  as  a  member  of  the  Union 
Society,  I  most  devoutly  wish  and  pray  that  you  may  be 
led  by  the  good  Spirit  of  God  to  take  those  steps  which 
will  leave  you  still  in  the  possession  of  all  the  rights  and 
privileges  of  church  fellowship. 

"  You  must  be  considered  as  the  arbiter  of  your  own 
destiny,  my  brother,  in  this  matter.  Your  brethren  of  the 
committee,  men  who  fear  God,  whose  characters  stand 
fair  in  the  Church,  and  who  have  disclaimed  all  feeling  of 
personal  hostility  against  you,  have  pronounced  you,  as  a 
member  of  the  Union  Society,  guilty  of  endeavoring  to  sow 
dissensions  in  the  society  or  Church  of  which  you  are  a 
member,  and  of  speaking  evU  of  the  ministers  of  said 
Church.  To  this  conclusion  they  have  been  conducted  by 
a  careful  and  patient  examination  of  the  documents  put 
into  their  hands  as  evidence  in  the  case.  You  must, 
therefore,  plainly  perceive,  that  the  only  ground  on  which 
expulsion  from  the  Church  can  be  avoided  is  an  abandon- 
ment of  the  Union  Society,  with  assurances  that  you  will 
ffive  no  aid  in  future  to  any  publication  or  measure  calcu- 
lated to  cast  reproach  upon  our  ministers,  or  occasion 
breach  of  union  among  our  members. 

"  Be  good  enough  then,  my  brother,  to  answer  in  writ- 
ing the  ifollowing  plain  and  simple  questions  :— 

"  1st.    Will  you  withdraw  forthwith  from  the   Union 
Society  ? 
"  2d.  Will  you  in  future  withhold  your  aid  from  such 
3 


[1828. 

>  make  suitable 
and  discipline 
to  abstain  from 
armony  of  said 
any  other  con- 
'  the  obligation 
I  me.  For,  be 
}e  in  regard  to 
her  of  the  Union 
lat  you  may  be 
►se  steps  which 
[  the  rights  and 

)r  of  your  own 
brethren  of  the 
tharacters  stand 
ed  all  feeling  of 
unced  you,  as  a 
eavoring  to  sow 
'hich  you  are  a 
linisters  of  said 
en  conducted  by 
3  documents  put 
ise.  You  must, 
pround  on  which 
1  is  an  abandon- 
!es  that  you  will 
'  measure  calcu- 
Brs,  or  occasion 

answer  in  writ- 
»ns : — 
from  the   Union 

ur  aid  from  such 


1828.]  METHODIST  EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  411 

publications  and  measures  as  are  calculated  to  cast 
reproach  upon  our  ministers,  and  produce  breach  of  union 
among  our  members  ? 

"Yours,  &c.  James  M.  Hanson. 

"P.  S.     Your  answer  will  be  expected  in  the  course 
of  four  ox  five  days." 

After  allowing  sufficient  time  for  deliberation,  and 
receiving  no  answer,  nor  discovering  any  symptoms  of 
reconciliation  from  any  quarter,  Mr.  Hanson  was  com- 
pelled to  the  act,  so  exceedingly  painful  to  an  adminis- 
trator of  discipline,  of  pronouncing  them  excommuni- 
cated from  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  Thus 
was  the  separation,  so  long  and  so  painfully  anticipated, 
notwithstanding  all  the  means  used  to  prevent  it,  finally 
consummated,  and  the  Church  left  to  bleed  under  the 
wounds  inflicted  upon  her  by  those  whom  she  had  once 
delighted  to  honor. 

In  the  mean  time  similar  proceedings  were  had  in 
other  places.  We  have  already  seen  that  the  Union 
Society  of  Baltimore  recommended  that  societies  of  the 
like  character  should  be  organized  wherever  a  sufficient 
number  of  persons  could  be  found  friendly  to  the  mea- 
sures of  the  "Reformers."  This  recommendation  had 
been  complied  with  in  a  number  of  places ;  and  wherever 
these  societies  existed,  agitations  and  commotions,  simi- 
lar to  those  in  Baltimore,  had  been  the  painful  results. 
Hence,  in  the  states  of  Tennessee  and  North  Carolina, 
several  members  of  these  Union  Societies  had  been  tried 
and  expelled  from  the  Church  for  their  refractory  con- 
duct, and  for  inveighing  against  the  discipline  and 
aspersing  the  character  of  the  ministers  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church.    And  in  addition  to  those  eleven 

3 


412 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


i 


i 


m 


[1828. 

local  preachers  and  twenty-two  laymen  who  were 
expelled  in  Baltimore,  about  fifty  females,  friends  of  the 
excommunicated  brethren,  addressed  a  letter  to  the  rul- 
ing preacher,  Mr.  Hanson,  expressing  their  desire  to 
withdraw  from  the  Church,  which  they  were  permitted 
to  do  without  further  trial. 

It  may  be  necessary  here  to  correct  an  erroneous 
opinion,  which  prevailed  to  some  extent  at  the  time, 
respecting  the  cause  of  complaint  against  the  "  Reform- 
ers," as  they  chose  all  along  to  call  themselves. 

Whoever  will  consult  the  writings  of  those  days,  in 
reference  to  this  subject,  will  find  complaints,  on  the 
part  of  the  "  Reformers,"  that  an  attempt  was  made,  by 
the  advocates  for  the  present  order  of  things,  to  suppress 
inquiry,  to  abridge  the  freedom  of  speech  and  of  the 
press,  and  that  these  trials  were  instituted,  in  part  at 
least,  as  a  punishment  for  exercising  this  freedom  on 
the  subjects  thr.t  were  then  litigated.  This  was  a  great 
mistake.  It  was  for  an  abuse  of  this  freedom,  for  in- 
dulging in  personal  criminations,  injurious  to  individual 
character,  that  the  dehnquents  were  tried  and  finally 
condemned.  This  will  appear  manifest  to  every  person 
who  will  impartially  inspect  the  charges,  the  specifica- 
tions, and  the  testimony  selected  from  the  "  Mutual 
Rights"  to  support  the  accusations,  and  also  from  the 
report  of  the  General  Conference  on  petitions  and  me- 
morials. It  was,  indeed,  expressly  disavowed  at  the 
time  by  the  prosecutors,  and  by  all  who  had  written  on 
the  subject,  that  they  wished  to  suppress  freedom  of  in- 
quiry, either  in  writing  or  speaking,  provided  only  that 
the  debaters  would  confine  their  discussions  to  an  inves- 
tigation of  facts  and  arguments,  without  impeaching 
3 


[1828. 

in  who  were 
,  friends  of  the 
iter  to  the  rul- 
their  desire  to 
^ere  permitted 

an  erroneous 
it  at  the  time, 
:  the  "  Reform- 
selves. 

those  days,  in 
plaints,  on  the 
was  made,  by 
^s,  to  suppress 
ech  and  of  the 
ited,  in  part  at 
liis  freedom  on 
his  was  a  great 
ireedom,  for  in- 
is  to  individual 
ed  and  finally 
to  every  person 
3,  the  specifica- 
!  the  "Mutual 

also  from  the 
itions  and  me- 
avowed  at  the 
had  written  on 
1  freedom  of  in- 
^rided  only  that 
ons  to  an  inves- 
)ut  impeaching 


1828.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


413 


the  character  and  motives  of  those  from  whom  they 
dissented.* 

The  expelled  members  in  the  city  of  Baltimore  im- 
mediately formed  themselves  into  a  society,  under  the 
title  of  "Associated  Methodist  Reformers;"  and  in  the 
month  of  November,  1827,  a  convention  assembled  in 
that  city,  composed  of  ministers  and  lay  delegates 
who  had  been  elected  by  the  state  conventions  and 
Un^on  Societies.  This  convention  prepared  a  memorial 
to  the  General  Conference.  The  memorial  was  pre- 
sented, read,  and  referred  to  a  committee,  and  the  fol- 
lowing report,  drawn  up  by  the  late  Bishop  Emory,  and 
unanimously  adopted  by  the  conference,  will  show  the 
result : — 

"  The  committee  to  whom  were  referred  certain  peti- 
tions and  memorials,  for  and  against  a  direct  lay  and  local 
representation  in  the  General  Conference,  submit  the  fol- 
lowing report : — 

"  Of  those  which  propose  this  revolution  in  our  econo- 
my, that  which  has  been  received  from  a  convention  of 
certain  local  preachers  and  lay  members,  held  in  the  city 
of  Baltimore  in  November  last,  is  presumed  to  imbody  the 

*  All  these  matters  were  set  in  a  just  point  of  light  soon 
after  these  trials  were  closed,  in  a  pamphlet  which  was  pub- 
lished m  the  early  part  of  the  year  1828,  entitled  "  A  Narra- 
tive and  Defence,"  under  the  signatures  of  the  prosecuting 
comnjittee  and  the  preacher  in  charge,  the  Rev.  Mr.  Hanson 
This  "Narrative  and  Defence,"  being  supported  by  ample 
documentary  testimony,  is  entitled  to  credit;  and  hence  it  is 
from  this  able  defence  of  the  authorities  of  the  Church  and 
their  proceedings  in  the  cases  at  issue,  that  I  have  drawn 
the  principal  facts  contained  in  the  above  sketch  of  this  affair 
From  the  Discipline  afterward  adopted  by  the  "  Reformers" 
I  have  taken  some  facts  respecting  their  secession  and  sub- 
sequent  transactions. 

3 


\ 


I 


414  A    HISTORY   OF    THE  [1828. 

general  views  of  those  who  desire  this  change,  and  the 
chief  arguments  on  which  they  rely.  In  framing  a  reply, 
in  the  midst  of  the  various  and  pressing  business  of  a 
General  Conference,  it  cannot  be  reasonably  expected  that 
we  should  enter  into  minute  details.  Our  remarks,  of 
necessity,  must  be  confined  lo  a  few  leading  topics,  in  a 
condensed,  yet,  we  trust,  an  intelligible  form. 

»  As  to  the  claim  of  right  to  the  representation  contended 
for,  if  it  be  a  right  which  the  claimants  are  entitled  to 
demand,  it  must  be  either  a  natural  or  an  acquired  right. 
If  a  natural  right,  then,  being  founded  in  nature,  it  must 
be  common  to  men,  as  men.     The  foundation  of  rights  in 
ecclesiastical  bodies,  in  our  opinion,  rests  on  a  different 
basis.     If  it  be  alleged  to  be  an  acquired  right,  then  it 
must  have  been  acquired  either  in  consequence  of  becom- 
ing Christians  or  of  becoming  Methodists.     If  the  former, 
it  devolves  on  the  claimants  to  prove  that  this  right  is  con- 
ferref'  by  the  Holy  Scriptures,  and  that  they  impose  on  us 
the  corresponding  obligation  to  grant  the  claim.     That  it 
is  not '  forbidden'  in  the  New  Testament  is  not  sufficient ; 
for  neither  is  the  contrary  '  forbidden.'     Or  if  the  latter  be 
alleged,  namely,  that  it  has  been  acquired  in  consequence 
of  becoming  Methodists,  then  it  must  have  been  either  by 
some  convinlional  compact,  or  by  some  obligatory  princi- 
ple in  the  economy  of  Methodism,  to  which,  as  then  organ- 
ized, the  claimants  voluntarily  attached  themselves.     Nei- 
ther of  these,  we  believe,  either  has  been  or  can  be  shown. 
And  until  one  at  least  of  these  be  shown,  the  claim  of 
right,  as  such,  cannot,  we  think,  have  been  sustained. 

"  But  do  the  memorialists  mean  lo  say  that  they  are 
entitled  to  their  claim,  as  a  matter  of  right,  against  the 
judgment  and  the  voice  of  a  cotjfessedly  very  large  ma- 
jority of  their  brethren,  both  of  the  ministry  traveling  and 
local,  and  aUo  of  the  lay  members  ?  or  that  in  theso  cir- 
cumstances, on  any  ground,  the  claim  ought  to  be  adniit- 
3 


[1828. 

nge,  and  the 
ming  a  reply, 
)usines3  of  a 
expected  that 
remarks,  of 
r  topics,  in  a 

ion  contended 
ire  entitled  to 
cquired  right, 
lature,  it  must 
n  of  rights  in 
on  a  different 
right,  then  it 
(ice  of  becom- 
If  the  former, 
8  right  is  con- 
impose  on  lis 
aim.     That  it 
not  sufficient ; 
if  the  hatter  be 
1  consequence 
)een  either  by 
igatory  princi- 
as  then  organ- 
iselves.     Nei- 
can  be  shown. 
1,  the  chiim  of 
sustained, 
that  thev  are 
ht,  against  the 
very  large  inu- 
r  traveling  and 
t  in  these  cir- 
it  to  be  admit- 


1828.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  415 

ted?  We  could  not  have  believed  them  capable  of  so 
strange  a  position,  had  they  not  declared  the  opinion  as 
prevailing  among  themselves,  'that  the  extension  of  the 
prmciple  of  representation  to  the  members  and  the  local 
preachers  of  the  Church,  by  the  General  Conference,  in 
compliance  with  a  petition  of  this  kind,  at  this  conjuncture 
of  time,  would  do  more  toward  conciliating  good  feeling, 
restoring  lost  confidence  among  brethren,  and  confirming 
wavering  minds,  on  all  sides,  than  any  other  measure 
which  can  be  adopted.' 

»  Now  we  *  speak  advisedly'  when  we  say,  that,  in  our 
judgment,  such  a  measure,  *  at  this  conjuncture  of  time,' 
would  have  a  precisely  contrary  effect.     The  ministers 
assembled  in   General  Conference,   coming  so  recently 
from  all  parts  of  the  great  field  of  our  missionary  labors, 
and  having  had,  throughout  its  whole  extent,  free  and  con- 
Slant  intercourse  both  with  traveling  and  local  preachers, 
and  also  with  our  lay  members,  are,  certainly,  at  least  as 
well  prepared  as  the  memorialists  could  have  been  to  form 
a  correct  judgment  on  this  point ;  and  their  calm  and  deli- 
berate  judgment  is  clearly  and  unhesitatingly  as  above 
stated.     This  we  believe,  too,  to  be  the  true  state  of  the 
question,  after  it  has  been  so  zealously  discussed,  on  the 
side  of  the  memorialists,  for  now  nearly  eight  years ;  dur- 
ing almost  the  whole  of  which  time,  until  very  recently, 
the  discussion  has  been  conducted  almost  exclusively  by 
their  own  writers. 

"  We  are  aware  that  it  has  been  assumed,  by  some  at 
least  of  those  writers,  that  this  repugnance  to  the  change 
proposed,  on  the  part  of  so  great  a  proportion  both  of  our 
local  preachers  and  lay  members,  to  say  nothing  of  the 
Itinerant  preachers,  is  the  result  of  ignorance  or  "want  of 
intellect.  This  we  conceive  to  be  at  least  not  a  very 
modest  assumption.  Our  opinion,  on  the  contrary,  is, 
while  we  freely  admit  that  there  are  men  of  respectable 

3 


115  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1828. 

information  and  intelligence  who  desire  the  change,  that 
there  are,  nevertheless,  very  many  more,  of  at  least  equally 
respectable  information  and  intelligence,  who  are  opposed 
to  it,  whether  on  the  ground  of  right,  of  consistent  practi- 
cability, or  of  utility. 

"  With  regard  to  our  local  brethren  particularly,  it  is  our 
decided  judgment  that  the  privileges  and  advantages  in 
which  they  have  participated,  in  this  country,  have  much 
rather  exceeded  than  fallen  short  of  what  was  contemplated 
in  their  institution,  in  the  original  economy  of  Methodism, 
as  founded  by  the  venerable  Wesley,  either  in  Europe  or 
in  America.     We  cannot  but  regret  to  perceive,  that  the 
addition  of  privilege  to  privilege  seems  only  to  have  had 
the  effect  of  exciting  some  of  our  brethren  to  claim  still 
more  and  more ;  and  now  to  begin  to  demand  them  as 
matters  of  positive  and  inherent  right.    We  are  happy  to 
be  able  to  say  •  some'  only  of  our  local  brethren  ;  for  of 
the   great  body,  even  of  themselves,  we  believe  better 
things,  though  we  thus  speak.     If,  indeed,  our  members 
generally  are  tired  of  our  missionary  and  itinerant  system, 
and  wish  a  change,  then  we  could  not  be  surprised  if  they 
should  desire  to  introduce  into  our  councils  local  men, 
whose  views,  and  feelings,  and  interests,  in  the  very  na- 
ture  and  necessity  of  things,  could  not  fail  to  be  more 
local  than  those  of  itinerant  men.     And  if  to  so  powerful 
a  local  influence  should  be  added,  as  would  be  added,  the 
tendencies  and  temptations  to  locality  which,  in  despite  of 
all  our  better  convictions,  too  often  exist  among  ourselves, 
from  domestic  and  personal  considerations  of  a  pressing 
character,  we  are  free  to  confess  our  fears  of  the  dangers 
to  our  itinerant  economy  which,  in  our  opinion,  could  not 
fail,  in  time,  to  be  the  result.     Now  the  preservation  of 
the  great  itinerant  system,  unimpaired,  in  all  its  vital  ener- 
gies, we  do  conscientiously  believe  to  be  essential  to  the 
. ui;oK.««nt  of  ♦>'«  crrnnd  oriffinal  desifim  of  the  eco- 


[1828. 

the  change,  that 
f  at  least  equally 
who  are  opposed 
consistent  practi- 

ticularly,  it  is  our 
id  advantages  in 
mtry,  have  much 
was  contemplated 
ly  of  Methodism, 
ler  in  Europe  or 
)erceive,  that  the 
only  to  have  had 
iren  to  claim  still 
demand  them  as 
We  are  happy  to 

brethren ;  for  of 
ve  believe  better 
sed,  our  members 
i  itinerant  system, 
3  surprised  if  they 
uncils  local  men, 
i,  in  the  very  na- 
»t  fail  to  be  more 

if  to  so  powerful 
ould  be  added,  the 
hich,  in  despite  of 
t  among  ourselves, 
ions  of  a  pressing 
irs  of  the  dangers 
opinion,  could  not 
le  preservation  of 
in  all  its  vital  ener- 
be  essential  to  the 
desifim  of  the  eco- 


METHODIST     EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


417 


1828.] 

nomy  of  Methodism,  to  spread.  Scriptural  holiness  over 
these  and  other  lands. 

"The  memorialists,  we  know, disavow  any  intention  or 
desire  to  impair  those  energies,  or  to  injure  this  system. 
Be  It  so.  They  can,  however,  only  speak  for  themselves. 
They  know  not  what  may  be  the  views  of  those  who  may 
come  after  them.  And,  in  any  event,  our  argument  is, 
that  the  change  proposed  would,  in  its  very  nature,  and 
from  the  inevitable  connections  of  causes  and  effects,  tend, 
gradually  perhaps,  yet  not  the  less  uncontrollably,  to  the 
results  which  we  have  mentioned. 

"  We  know  also  that  it  has  been  insinuated  that  wo  ad- 
here to  the  continuance  of  our  present  polity  Aom  motives 
of  personal  interest.     For  protection  against  such  unkind- 
ness  and  injustice  we  rest  on  the  good  sense  and  candor 
of  the  community.     It  cannot  but  be  well  known  that  our 
present  economy  bears  with  a  peculiar  severity  upon  the 
personal  and  domestic  comforts  of  the  itinerant  ministry. 
And  even  an  enemy  could  scarcely  fail  to  admit  that,  were 
we  really  ambitious  of  worldly  interest,  and  of  personal 
ease,  and  domestic  comfort,  we  might  have  the  discern- 
ment to  perceive  that  the  surest  way  to  e«ect  these  objects 
would  be  to  effect  the  changes  proposed,  and  thus  to  pre- 
pare the  way  for  the  enjoyment  of  similar  advantages,  in 
thebe  respects,  to  those  now  enjoyed  by  the  settled  minis- 
try of  other  churches.     And,  indeed,  were  such  a  change 
effected,  and  should  we  even  still  continue  itinerant,  con- 
sidering that,  from  the  necessity  of  things,  our  wealthy 
and  liberal  friends  would  most  generally  be  selected  as 
delegates,  we  do  not  doubt  that  the  change  proposed  might 
probably  tend  to  increase  our  temporal  comforts.     We 
think  this  the  more  probable,  because,  if  such  a  direct 
representation  of  the  laity  were  admitted,  their  constitu- 
ents  might  uUimately  become  obliged,  by  some  positive 

provisions,  fullv  to  make  ud  and  nn.v  vrhat^«»r.  «n^. 

27  3 


418 


A    HISTORY    OF   THE 


[18S8. 


might  be  made  to  the  ministry ;  which  allowances,  in  this 
event,  might  also  more  properly  acquire  the  nature  of  a 
civil  obligation.  At  present  our  economy  knows  no  such 
thing.  The  great  Head  of  the  church  himself  has  imposed 
on  us  the  duty  of  preaching  the  gospel,  of  administering  its 
ordinances,  and  of  maintaining  its  moral  discipline  among 
those  over  whom  the  Holy  Ghost,  in  these  respects,  has 
made  us  overseers.  Of  these  also,  namely,  of  gospel  doc- 
trines, ordinances,  and  moral  discipline,  we  do  bfc'ieve 
that  the  divinely  instituted  ministry  are  the  divinely  au- 
thorized expounders ;  and  that  the  duty  of  maintaining 
them  in  their  purity,  and  of  not  permitting  our  ministra- 
tions, in  these  respects,  to  be  authoritatively  controlled  by 
others,  does  rest  upon  us  with  the  force  of  a  moral  obliga- 
tion, in  the  due  discharge  of  which  our  consciences  are 
involved.  It  is  on  this  ground  that  we  resist  the  tempta- 
tions of  temporal  advantage  which  the  proposed  changes 
hold  out  to  us. 

"  On  this  point  we  beg,  however,  that  no  one  may  either 
misunderstand  or  misrepresent  us.  We  neither  claim  nor 
seek  to  be  'lords  over  God's  heritage.'  In  th<  sense  of 
this  passage,  there  is  but  one  Lord  and  one  Lawgiver. 
We  arrogate  no  authority  to  enact  any  laws  of  our  own, 
either  of  moral  or  of  civil  force.  Our  commission  is  to 
preach  the  gospel,  and  to  enforce  the  moral  discipline, 
established  by  the  one  Lawgiver,  by  those  spiritual  pow- 
ers vested  in  us,  as  subordinate  pastors,  who  watch  over 
souls  ao  they  that  must  give  account  to  the  chief  Shep- 
herd. We  claim  no  strictly  legislative  powers,  although 
we  grant  that  the  terms  *  legislature'  and  '  legislative'  have 
been  sometimes  used  even  among  ourselves.  In  a  proper 
sense,  however,  they  are  not  strictly  applicable  to  our 
General  Conference.  A  mistake  on  this  point  has  proba- 
bly been  the  source  of  much  erroneous  reasoning,  and  of 

dissatisfactiQQ.      Did   we   claim    any 


SVS*2^        V  "'S 


[18S8. 

twances,  in  this 
;he  nature  of  a 
knows  no  such 
lelf  has  imposed 
idministering  its 
iscipline  among 
e  respects,  has 
^,  of  gospel  doc- 

we  do  bfcMeve 
the  divinely  au- 

of  maintaining 
ig  our  ministra- 
ly  controlled  by 
[  a  moral  obliga- 
consciences  are 
jsist  the  tempta- 
oposed  changes 

J  one  may  either 
leither  claim  nor 
In  th<  sense  of 
[  one  Lawgiver, 
iws  of  our  own, 
;ommission  is  to 
noral  discipline, 
e  spiritual  pow- 
who  watch  over 
the  chief  Shep- 
(owers,  although 

legislative'  have 
es.  In  a  proper 
ipplicable  to  our 

point  has  proba- 
easoning,  and  of 

we   claim    anV 


1888.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  419 

authority  to  enact  laws  to  affect  either  life  or  limb,  to 
touch  the  persons  or  to  tax  the  property  of  our  members, 
they  ought,   unquestionably,   to  be  directly  represented 
among  us.     But  they  know  we  do  not.     We  certainly, 
then,  exercise  no  civil  legislation.     As  to  the  moral  code, 
we  are  subject,  equally  with  themselves,  to  one  only  Lord. 
We  have  no  power  to  add  to,  to  take  from,  to  alter,  or  to 
modify  a  single  item  of  his  statutes.     Whether  laymen  or 
ministers  be  the  authorized  expounders  and  administrators 
of  those  laws,  we  can  confidently  rely  on  the  good  Chris 
tian  sense  of  the  great  body  of  our  brethren  to  judge 
These  well  know,  also,  that  whatever  expositions  of  them 
we  apply  to  others,  the  same  are  applied  equally  to  our- 
selves, and,  in  some  instances,  with  peculiar  strictness. 

"  No  man  is  obliged  to  receive  our  doctrines  merely  be- 
cause we  believe  and  teach  them,  nor  unless  they  have  his 
own  cordial  assent.     Neither  is  any  man  obliged  to  submit 
himself  to  what  we  believe  to  be  the  moral  discipline  of  the 
gospel,  and  our  duty  to  enforce,  unless  he  believes  it  to  be 
so  also.     In  this  view,  at  least,  it  cannot  require  any  great 
share  of  either  intelligence  or  candor  to  perceive  some 
difference  between  our  spiritual  and  pastoral  oversight  and 
the  absolute  sway  of  the  ancient  *  Druids,'  and  of  the 
despots  of  •  Babylon  and  Egypt,'  and  of  '  India  and  Tar- 
tary.'     The  subjects  of  their  lawless  power  became  so 
not  by  choice,  but  by  birth.     Neither  had  they  the  means, 
whatever  might  have  been  their  desire,  of  escaping  its 
grasp.     Even  in  more  modern  days,  and  under  govern- 
ments comparatively  free,  the  right  of  expatriation,  with- 
out  the  consent  of  the  government,  has  been  denied.     We 
do  not  subscribe  to  this  doctrine,  if  applied  to  either  church 
or  state.     The  right  of  ecclesiastical  expatriation,  from 
any  one  branch  of  the  Christian  church  to  any  other  which 
may  be  preferred,  for  grave  causes,  we  have  never  denied. 


IMOr  r&n    1VA   \i£kan     nnf   noo 


J 


uesiro~u3  t«  ae&p,  any  maii 

3 


c 


Ur 


420  A   HISTORY   OF    THE  [1828. 

subject  to  our  authority  one  moment  longer  than  it  is  his 
own  pleasure.  We  advert  to  this  topic  with  great  reluct- 
ance, but  the  memorialists  compel  us.  If  they  will  cease 
to  compare  us  to  despots,  to  whom  we  bear  no  analogy, 
we  shall  cease  to  exhibit  the  obvious  distinction.  Till 
then  it  is  our  duty  to  repel  the  imputation,  so  obstructive 
of  our  ministry.  Expatriation,  either  civil  or  ecclesiasti- 
cal, if  we  may  continue  tliis  application  of  the  term,  may 
be  painful,  and  attended  with  sacrifices.  But  we  should 
certainly  think  it  preferable  to  perpetual  internal  war.  If 
our  brethren  can  live  in  peace  with  us,  in  Christian  bonds, 
we  shall  sincerely  rejoice,  and  be  cordially  happy  in  their 
society  and  fellowship.  But  we  entreat  them  not  to  keep 
us  embroiled  in  perpetual  strife.  Our  united  energies  are 
needed  for  higher  and  nobler  purposes. 

"  We  have  been  repeatedly  told,  in  effect,  that  the  doc- 
trines, the  moral  discipline,  and  the  peculiar  Christian 
privileges  of  class  meetings,  love  feasts,  &c.,  in  the  Me- 
thodist Episcopal  Church,  are  approved  and  esteemed,  by 
the  various  memorialists  themselves,  above  those  of  any 
other  branch  of  the  Christian  church.  Does  it  not  then 
clearly  follow,  by  their  own  admission,  that,  with  all  the 
faults  of  our  government,  this  state  of  things  has  been  pre- 
served and  maintained  under  the  peculiar  administrations 
of  our  itinerant  system  ?  And  who  will  undertake  to  say 
that,  under  a  gracious  Providence,  which  has  thus  led  us 
on,  this  has  not,  in  a  great  measure  at  least,  been  the 
result  of  the  distinctness  of  our  polity  from  that  of  most 
other  churches?  And  who  will  undertake  to  say  that, 
were  the  changes  proposed  adopted,  we  should  not  gradu- 
ally, though  at  first  perhaps  almost  imperceptibly,  begin  to 
go  the  way  of  others  ?  We  speak  to  Methorlists.  They 
will  judge  what  we  say.  The  moral  results  of  our  past 
and  present  polity  have  been  tried.  Its  fruits  are  before 
us,  and  confepsed  by  the  world.     The  experiment  pro- 


[1828. 

;r  than  it  is  his 
rith  great  reluct- 

they  will  cease 
sear  no  analogy, 
iistinction.  Till 
n,  so  obstructive 
1  or  ecclesiasti- 
if  the  term,  may 

But  we  should 
Qtemal  war.  If 
Christian  bonds, 
y  happy  in  their 
hem  not  to  keep 
ted  energies  are 

3ct,  that  the  doc- 
jculiar  Christian 
&c.,  in  the  Me- 
nd esteemed,  by 
ve  those  of  any 
Does  it  not  then 
hat,  with  all  the 
igs  has  been  pre- 
r  administrations 
undertake  to  say 
I  has  thus  led  us 

least,  been  the 
om  that  of  most 
ake  to  say  that, 
(hould  not  gradu- 
:eptibly,  begin  to 
ssthorlists.  They 
suits  of  our  past 
fruits  are  before 

experiment  pro- 


1828.]  METHODIST    EPISCqPAL    CHURCH.  421 

posed,  in  connection  with  an  essentially  itinerant  system, 
is  untried.  Its  results,  at  best,  must  be  problematical ; 
and,  in  our  opinion,  there  is  no  prospect  of  gain  that  can 
justify  the  hazard. 

"With  regard  to  our  local  brethren  particularly,  they 
have  themselves  explicitly  said,  that  they  *  ask  for  no  dis- 
tinct representation  of  the  local  preachers.'  So  far  as  this 
question  is  concerned,  therefore,  by  their  own  consent, 
they  can  only  be  regarded  as  amalgamated  with  the  laity  : 
and  our  lay  brethren,  we  apprehend,  would  not  readily 
conseiit  to  its  being  considered  in  any  other  light. 

"  Were  we  disposed  to  retort  the  insinuation  of  sinister 
personal  motives,  how  easy  would  it  be  for  us  to  suggest 
that  some  of  our  local  brethren  who  have  deserted  the 
itinerant  field,  (perhaps  from  its  toils  and  privations,)  and 
others  who  have  never  been  pleased  to  leave  domestic 
comforts  and  temporal  pursuits  to  encounter  its  labors  and 
sacrifices,  may  be  so  zealous  in  accomplishing  the  pro- 
posed change  in  order  to  cut  up,  or  to  bring  down,  the 
itinerant  system  to  a  nearer  approximation  to  their  tempo- 
ral convenience.  So  that,  in  time,  they  might  come, 
without  the  sacrifices  at  present  necessary,  to  participate 
both  in  the  pastoral  charge,  and,  alas !  in  the  envied  pit- 
tance of  those  who  now  devote  themselves  wholly  to  the 
work,  and  are  absolutely  dependent  for  daily  subsistence 
on  the  mere  voluntary  contributions  of  those  whom  they 
serve  :  (a  check  on  their  power  indeed  !)  Such  an  impu- 
tation would  be  quite  as  kind  and  as  true  as  many  of  those 
which  are  so  liberally  heaped  on  us.  This  course  of  ar- 
gumentation, however,  we  deem  unworthy  of  Christian 
brethren,  and  shall  leave  it  for  those  who  think  their  cause 
requires  it.  The  man  who  can  believe,  or  who  can  en- 
deavor to  persuade  others,  that  we  adhere  to  our  present 
itinerant  system  for  the  sake  of  personal  convenience, 
ease,  or  interest,  or  with  the  view  of  benefiting  our  poste- 

3 


*,**'         la  I 


i<- 


Pi 

hi 


11. 1 

r 


If 
III 


422  A  HISTORY  OF  THE  [1828. 

rity  more  than  the  posterity  of  our  brethi  3n,  may  be  pitied, 
but  he  places  himself  beyond  the  reach  either  of  reasoning 
or  of  rebuke. 

"  The  memorialists  were  sensible  that  '  a  plan'  of  their 
proposed  changes  had  been  urgently  called  for,  and  seem 
to  have  been  well  aware  that  rational  and  conscientious 
men  could  not  feel  free  to  enter  upon  so  great  a  revolution, 
in  a  system  of  such  extent  and  of  such  connections,  with- 
out a  plan,  clearly  and  frankly  developed,  and  bearing  the 
marks  of  having  been  carefully  and  judiciously  devised. 
The  memorialists  indeed  say,  that,  *  independently  of  other 
considerations,'  they  were  '  disposed  to  avoid  the  attempt 
to  form  a  plan,  out  of  deference  to  the  General  Confer- 
ence.* It  would  have  been  more  satisfactory  to  us  to  have 
known  what  those  'other  considerations'  were.  From 
some  other  circumstances,  we  cannot  but  apprehend  that 
they  probably  had  more  influence  in  keeping  back  the 
expose  of '  a  plan'  than  the  one  mentioned  here,  of—'  defe 
rence  to  the  General  Conference.'  On  our  part,  we  frankly 
confess  ourselves  incompetent  to  form  any  satisfactory 
plan,  on  any  principles  which  we  believe  to  J)e  equal  and 
efficient,  and  consistent  with  the  energies  and  greatest 
usefulness  of  our  extended  missionary  system.  We  think 
it,  therefore,  unreasonable,  at  least,  to  ask  of  us  to  contrive 
a  '  plan.' 

"  So  far  as  we  can  judge  from  any  experiment  that  has 
been  made,  in  Europe  or  in  America,  we  cannot  perceive 
any  great  advantages  which  could  be  promised  to  the 
Church  from  the  proposed  change.  Nor  has  the  late  con- 
vention in  Baltimore  afforded  to  our  understanding  any 
additional  argument  for  its  efficient  practicability.  Agree- 
ably to  the  journal  of  that  convention,  one  hundred  persons 
were  appointed  to  attend  it,  of  whom  fifty-seven  only  did 
attend,  namely,  from  the  state  of  New- York,  one ;  North 


[1828. 

in,  may  be  pitied, 
ther  of  reasoning 

'  a  plan'  of  their 
ed  for,  and  seem 
lid  conscientious 
;reat  a  revolution, 
3nnections,  with- 
,  and  bearing  the 
iciously  devised, 
endently  of  other 
void  the  attempt 
General  Confer- 
tory  to  us  to  have 
is'  were.  From 
t  apprehend  that 
:eeping  back  the 
I  here,  of—'  defe 
r  part,  we  frankly 

any  satisfactory 
>  to  J)e  equal  and 
ies  and  greatest 
stem.     We  think 

of  us  to  contrive 

)eriment  that  has 
5  cannot  perceive 
promised  to  the 
has  the  late  con- 
iderstanding  any 
cability.  Agree- 
I  hundred  persons 
ty-seven  only  did 
fork,  one ;  North 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


423 


1828.] 

Pennsylvania,  seven ;  Virginia,  ten ;  and  Maryland, 
twenty-nine.  Now  that  convention  had  been  urgently 
called,  by  repeated  public  advertisements,  and  was  ex 
pected  to  be  held  but  a  few  days,  to  discuss  subjects 
represented  as  of  great  importance  and  deep  interest. 
Liberal  invitations  were  given,  and  comfortable  and  free 
accommodations  pledged.  Yet,  notwithstanding  the  no- 
velty of  the  assembly,  the  pleasantness  of  the  season,  and 
other  inviting  circumstances,  a  very  few  more  than  one 
half  of  the  whole  number  appointed  attended.  And  had  it 
required  two-thirds  of  that  number  to  constitute  a  quorum, 
as  in  our  General  Conference,  after  all  their  labor  and 
expense,  no  business  could  have  been  done,  for  there 
would  have  been  no  quorum.  Of  the  number  that  did 
attend,  too,  it  will  be  perceived  that  a  majority  of  the 
whole  were  from  the  state  of  Maryland,  within  which  the 
convention  was  held ;  and,  including  the  neighboring  Dis- 
trict of  Columbia,  a  decisive  majority.  This  exhibits  a 
practical  proof  that,  were  a  lay  delegation  even  admitted, 
the  consequence  would  be,  that  the  extremities  of  our 
Church  would  not  be,  in  fact,  represented  at  all,  but  would 
be  subjected  to  the  overwhelming  control  of  those  within 
the  vicinity  of  the  seat  of  the  conference  ;  a  state  of  things 
which,  we  believe,  is  not  desirable.  This  may  serve  also, 
perhaps,  to  account,  in  some  measure,  for  the  great  zeal 
which  some  of  our  brethren  have  exhibited  in  this  cause, 
particularly  in  the  state  of  Maryland  and  the  adjoining 
district,  and  in  the  city  of  Baltimore,  where  the  General 
Conference  has  usually  been  held.  Were  it  established 
that  the  General  Conference  should  always  be  held  in  St 
Louis  or  New-Orleans,  or  any  other  reniote  part,  we  can? 
not  but  think  that  the  zeal  of  some,  in  that  case,  would 
probably  be  very  m ach  abated.     Even  they  would  scarcely 

be  willing  to  trayel  aio  great  a  distance,  at  so  n^uch  ex- 

■'"'■"'■■■    ■'    ■'     '  ■  '  a 


424  A    HISTORY    OF    THE  [1828. 

pense  and  loss  of  time,  to  remain  three  or  four  weeks  at  a 
General  Conference. 

"In  another  document,  issued  by  the  convention  above 
alluded  to,  they  say,  ♦  We  have  been  laboring  with  great 
attention  and  perseverance  to  put  the  public  in  possession 
of  our  views  as  fast  as  wo  can.'  They  have  ;  Iso  had  in 
circulation  for  many  years  a  monthly  periodical  publica- 
tion, for  the  express  purpose  of  diffusing  their  views  and 
advocating  their  cause,  besides  the  institution  of  what 
have  been  called  Union  SocietieB,  and  of  late  a  conven- 
tion. Yet,  after  all  these  exertions,  the  great  body  of  our 
ministers,  both  traveling  and  local,  as  well  as  of  our  mem- 
bers, perhaps  not  much  if  any  shor;.  of  one  hundred  to  one 
still  oppose  their  wishes.  This,  as  before  said,  has  been 
assumed  to  be  from  ignorance  or  want  of  intellect,  or  from 
some  worse  principle.  But  we  believe  it  to  be  the  result 
of  a  firm  and  deliberate  attachment  to  our  existing  institu- 
tions and  economy— an  attachment  which  we  have  the 
happiness  of  believing  to  be  increased,  rather  than  dimi- 
nished, in  proportion  to  the  development  of  the  details  of 
any  plans  which  the  memorialists  have  yet  seen  fit  to  ex- 
hibit. We  put  it,  then,  to  the  good  sense,  to  the  Christian 
candor,  and  to  the  calmer  and  better  feelings  of  our  bre- 
thren, whether  it  b  .  not  time  to  cease  to  agitate  and  dis- 
turb the  Church  with  this  controversy  ? — at  least,  if  it  must 
be  cont'nued,  whether  it  be  not  time  to  divest  it  of  that 
acrimony  and  virulence  which,  in  too  many  instances,  we 
fear,  has  furnished  fit  matter  for  the  scoff  of  the  infidel  and 
the  reproach  of  common  enemies  ?  If  this  state  of  things 
be  continued,  how  can  it  he  said,  *  See  how  these  Chris- 
tians love  one  another !'  It  grieves  us  to  think  of  it.  We 
woep  between  the  porch  and  the  altar ;  and  our  cry  is, 
'  Spare,  O  Lord !  spare  thy  people,  and  give  not  thine 
heritage  to  this  reproach.' 


"  Wn  knnw  that  iiro  Viairo  Koon  y>Vi 


m 


[1828. 
»ur  weeks  at  a 

vention  above 
tig  with  great 

in  possession 
6  ;,l80  had  in 
dical  publica- 
eir  views  and 
ition  of  whai 
late  a  copven- 
it  body  of  our 
s  of  our  mem- 
undred  to  ore 
taid,  has  been 
ellect,  or  from 

be  the  resuh 
listing  institu- 
we  have  the 
ler  than  dimi- 
the  details  of 
seen  fit  to  ex- 

the  Christian 
»s  of  our  bre- 
yitate  and  dis- 
east,  if  it  must 
^est  it  of  that 
instances,  we 
;he  infidel  and 
itate  of  things 
-v  these  Chris- 
nk  of  it.  We 
id  our  cry  is, 
ive  not  thine 

Lin  >7i3iiiug  lu 


1828] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


435 


suppress  free  inquiry,  and  with  denying  to  our  ministers 
and  members  the  liberty  of  spoech  and  of  the  press.     Our 
feelings,   under    such    reiterated  and   widely   circulated 
charges,  would  tempt  us  to  repel  them  with  strong  expres- 
sions.    If  reviled,  however,  we  are  resolved  not  to  revile 
again.     But  the  charge  we  wholly  disavow.     Our  minis- 
ters and  members,  of  every  class,  are  entitled  to  the  full 
liberty  of  speech  and  of  the  press,  equally  with  any  other 
citizens  of  the  United  Spates,  subject  solely  to  the  restric- 
tions and  responsibilities  imposed  by  the  laws  of  the  land, 
by  the  obligations  of  Christianity,  and  by  the  existing 
regulations  under  which  we  are  voluntarily  associated,  as 
Methodists  and  as  Methodist  ministers.     The  rule  in  our 
Diicipline,  "see.  7,  p.  91,'  (new  edition,  p.  88,)  of  which 
seme  of  the  memorialists  complain,  never  was  intended  (and 
we  are  not  aware  that  it  h?s  at  any  time  been  oflScially  so 
construed;  to  suppress  such  freedom  of  inquiry,  or  to  deny 
such  liberty  of  speech  and  of  the  press ;  provided  such 
inquiry  be  condu'ited,  and  such  liberty  be  used,  in  a  man- 
ner consistent  with  the  above-mentioned  obligations.     The 
design  of  the  rule  was  to  guard  the  peace  and  union  of  the. 
Church  against  any  mischievous  false  brethren,  who  might 
be  disposed  to  avail  themselves  of  their  place  in  the  bosom 
of  the  Church  to  endeavor  to  sow  dissensions,  by  inveighino 
against  our  doctrines  or  discipline,  in  the  sense  of  unchris- 
tian railing  and  violence.     Any  other  construction  of  it  we 
have  never  sancdoned,  nor  will  we.     In  this  view  of  this 
rule,  we  cannot  consent  to  its  abolition.     On  the  contrary, 
we  regard  it  as  a  Christian  and  useful  rule,  and  particularly 
necessary,  at  the  present  time,  for  the  well-being  of  the 
Church.     It  is  aimed  against  licentiousness,  and  not  against 
Uberty.     In  the  state,  as  well  as  in  the  church,  it  is  found 
necessary  to  subject  both  speech  and  i\e  press  to  certain 
legal  responsibilities,  which  undoubtedly  operate  as  re- 
ij-„,    aiiu  i^xivi  lo   guaiu   uginiisi  uceuiiousness,   by 


426 


A   HISTORY    OF   THE 


[1828. 


exposing  offenders  to  penalties  corresponding  to  the  extent 
of  their  abuse  of  liberty.  And  we  confess  ourselves  among 
the  number  of  those  who,  with  statesmen  and  jurists,  as 
well  as  divines,  maintain  that  even  a  despotic  government 
is  preferable  to  a  state  of  unbridled  anarchy. 

"  By  insinuations  of  the  above  description,  and  by  others 
of  an  analogous  character,  attempts  have  been  made  to 
excite  against  us  the  jealousy  and  suspicion  of  statesmen 
and  politicians,  and  of  the  constituted  authorities  of  the 
civil  government.     This  low  stratagem  we  have  always 
regarded  as  peculiarly  deserving  the  rebuke  of  every  gene- 
rous mind,  even  among  our  opponents :  and  we  cannot 
believe  otherwise  than  that  it  had  its  origin  either  in  some 
distempered  mind  or  some  perverted  heart.     The  memo- 
rialists wish  the  government  of  the  Church  to  be  assimi- 
lated to  that  of  the  state.     We  think,  on  the  other  hand, 
that  as  there  neither  is  nor  ought  to  be  any  connection 
between  church  and  state,  so  neither  is  there  any  obliga 
tion  or  necessity  to  conform  the  government  of  the  one  to 
that  of  the  other.     That  both  their  origin  and  their  object? 
differ ;  and  that  to  aim  at  conforming  them  to  each  other 
would  be  more  likely,  in  the  course  of  human  events,  to 
terminate  in  their  amalgamation,  than  the  course  of  deny- 
ing such  analogy,  and  maintaining  the  two  jurisdictions  on 
their  peculiarly  distinctive  bases,  under  regulations  adapted 
to  the  objects  for  which  they  were  severally  designed.    In 
the  instances  of  civil  and  religious  despotism  alluded  to  by 
the  memorialists,  as  recorded  in  history,  the  powers  of 
church  and  state  were  combined,  and  no  means  were  left 
to  the  people  of  appealing  or  of  escaping  from  the  one  or 
from  the  other.     The  first  step  toward  producing  such  a 
state  of  things  would  be  to  bring  ministers  of  religion  and 
officers  of  state  into  a  nearer  alliance  with  each  other,  and 
thus  gradually  to  effect  an  assimilation  of  views,  and  feel- 
ings, and  interests.     The  way  being  thus  prepared,  politi- 


[1828. 

{g  to  the  extent 
jrselves  among 
and  jurists,  as 
tic  government 

I,  and  by  others 
been  made  to 
n  of  statesmen 
horities  of  the 
e  have  alv^ays 
of  every  gene- 
ind  we  cannot 
either  in  some 
t.     The  memo- 
h  to  be  assimi- 
he  other  hand, 
any  connection 
ere  any  obliga 
It  of  the  one  to 
nd  their  object? 
m  to  each  other 
iman  events,  to 
course  of  deny- 
jurisdictions  on 
ulations  adapted 
[y  designed.    In 
jm  aUuded  to  by 
,  the  powers  of 
means  were  left 
from  the  one  or 
roducing  such  a 
I  of  religion  and 
each  other,  and 
views,  and  feel- 
prepared,  politi- 


1828.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  4S7 

cians  and  statesmen  might  be  introduced  into  our  ecclesi- 
astical councils,  and,  by  a  '  mutual'  combination,  aid  each 
other  in  the  accumulation  of  power  and  influence.  We  do 
not  affirm  that  any  of  the  memorialists  seriously  meditate 
such  designs.  But  we  do  say,  that,  according  to  our  un- 
derstanding of  the  natural  tendency  of  things,  the  change 
proposed  is  just  such  a  one  as  would  be  most  likely  to  be 
adopted  by  men  of  policy  for  the  accomplishment  of  such 
an  object ;  and  that,  in  the  present  state  of  the  world,  no- 
thing would  be  more  impolitic  than  the  continuance  of  our 
present  economy  with  any  such  ambitious  schemes  in 
view  as  some,  we  fear,  and  must  say,  have  malevolently 
insinuated. 

"  With  regard  to  what  have  been  called  ♦  Union  Socie- 
ties,' we  consider  the  organization  of  these  distinct  bodies 
within  the  bosom  of  the  Church  as  the  baneful  source  of 
the  principal  evils  which  of  late  have  so  painfully  afflicted 
and  distracted  some  portions  of  our  charge.     Such  asso- 
ciations, within  the  pale  of  the  Church,  have  arrayed  and 
combined  all  the  workings  of  the  spirit  of  party  in  their 
most  pernicious  and  destructive  forms.     They  have  drawn 
a  line  of  separation  between  those  v/ho  compose  them  and 
)heir  brethren,  as  organized  and  systematic  adversaries. 
They  have  separated  chief  friends  ;  they  have  severed  the 
most  sacred  and  endearing  ties;    and  have  caused  and 
fomented  discord  and  strife  in  circles  before  distinguished 
for  peace  and  love.     And  under  whatever  plausible  pre- 
texts they  may  have  been  instituted,  the  Church  generally, 
we  believe,  has  regarded  them  as  calculated,  if  not  de- 
signed, either  to  obstruct  the  due  administration  of  disci- 
pline, by  overawing  the  administration  of  it,  or  to  prepare 
an  organized  secession,  in  case  they  should  fail  in  model- 
ing the  Church  according  to  their  wishes.     With  these 
associations  numbers,  we  have  no  doubt,  unwarily  became 
connected  at  first,  from  various  views,  who  now  feel  a 

3 


I 

,  'mi 


428 


A    HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1828. 


f^^ 


i: 


d 


difficulty  in  disentangling  themselves.  If,  however,  the 
real  ohject  of  their  original  institution  was  to  secure  an 
identity  of  views  in  the  communications  to  be  presented  to 
this  General  Conference,  that  object  having  been  now 
accomplished,  we  affectionately  and  respectfully  submit  it 
to  the  peacefully  disposed  among  our  brethren  who  may 
yet  compose  them,  whether  there  can  yet  be  any  remain- 
ing obligation  to  continue  in  them ;  and  whether,  in  fact, 
they  ought  not  now  to  be  dissolved.  In  our  opinion,  con- 
sidering what  have  been  their  past  operation  and  effects, 
the  general  peace  of  the  Church  can  never  be  restored 
and  settled  on  any  firm  and  lasting  basis  till  this  shall  be 
done. 

"  We  might  add  much  more,  but  the  time  fails  us.  We 
entreat  our  brethren  to  be  at  peace.  It  is  our  earnest  and 
sincere  desire.  In  order  to  it,  on  our  part,  we  have  ad- 
vised, and  do  hereby  advise  and  exhort  all  our  brethren, 
and  all  our  ecclesiastical  officers,  to  cultivate  on  all  occa- 
sions the  meekness  and  gentleness  of  Christ ;  and  to  exer- 
cise all  the  lenity,  moderation,  and  forbearance  which  may 
be  consistent  with  the  purity  of  our  institutions,  and  the 
due  and  firm  administration  of  necessary  discipline,  the 
sacrifice  of  which  we  could  not  but  deem  too  costly,  even 

for  peace. 

» In  conclusion,  we  say  to  brethren, '  If  there  be,  there- 
fore, any  consolation  in  Christ,  if  any  comfort  of  love,  if 
any  fellowship  of  the  Spirit,  if  any  bowels  and  mercies, 
fulfil  ye  our  joy,  that  ye  bo  like  minded,  having  the  same 
love,  being  of  one  accord,  of  one  mind.  Let  the  peace  of 
God  rule  in  our  hearts,  to  the  which  also  we  are  called  in 
one  body;  and  let  us  he  thankful.  Whatsoever  things 
are  true,  whatsoever  things  are  just,  v/hatsoever  things  are 
lovely,  whatsoever  things  are  of  good  report,  if  there  bo 
any  virtue  and  any  praise,  let  us  think  on  these  things.— 
Let  ail  bitterness,  and  wrath,  and  augur,  aaJ  clamor,  and 
3 


[1828. 

lowever,  the 
to  secure  an 
presented  to 
ff  been  now 
illy  submit  it 
3n  who  may 
any  remain- 
ither,  in  fact, 
opinion,  con- 
i  and  effects, 
be  restored 
this  shall  be 

ails  us.    We 

r  earnest  and 

we  have  ad- 

Dur  brethren, 

on  all  occa- 

and  to  exer- 

;e  which  may 

dons,  and  the 

liscipline,  the 

)  costly,  even 

ere  be,  there- 
irt  of  love,  if 
and  mercies, 
nr\g  the  same 
;  the  peace  of 
are  called  in 
soever  things 
ver  things  are 
•t,  if  there  be 
hcse  things.— 
1  clamor,  and 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


429 


1828.] 

evil  speaking  be  put  away  from  us,  with  all  malice.     And 
may  the  God  of  love  and  peace  be  with  us.' " 

The  following  resolutions  were  adopted  also,  nearly 
unanimously : — 

"  Whereas  an  unhappy  excitement  has  existed  in  some 
parts  of  our  work,  in  consequence  of  the  organization  of 
what  have  been  called  Union  Societies,  for  purposes,  and 
under  regulations,  believed  to  be  inconsistent  with  the 
peace  and  harmony  of  the  Church ;  and  in  relation  to  the 
character  of  much  of  the  matter  contained  in  a  certain 
periodical  publication,  called  *  Mutual  Rights,'  in  regard  to 
which  certain  expulsions  from  the  Church  have  taken 
place :  and  whereas  this  General  Conference  indulges  a 
hope  that  a  mutual  desire  may  exist  for  conciliation  and 
peace,  and  is  desirous  of  leaving  open  a  way  for  the  ac- 
complishment of  so  desirable  an  object,  on  safe  and  equi- 
table principles  ;  therefore.  Resolved,  &c., 

"  1 .  That  in  view  of  the  premises,  and  in  the  earnest 
hope  that  this  measure  may  tend  to  promote  this  object, 
this  General  Conference  affectionately  advises  that  no 
further  proceedings  may  be  had,  in  any  part  of  our  work, 
against  any  minister  or  member  of  the  Methodist  Episco- 
pal Church,  on  account  of  any  past  agency  or  concern  in 
relation  to  the  above-named  periodical,  or  in  relation  to 
any  Union  Society  as  above  mentioned. 

"  2.  If  any  persons,  expelled  as  aforesaid,  feel  free  to 
concede  that  publications  have  appeared  in  said  '  Mutual 
Rights,'  the  nature  and  character  of  which  were  unjustifi- 
ably inflammatory,  and  do  not  admit  of  vindication ;  and 
that  others,  though  for  want  of  proper  information,  or  unin- 
tentionally, have  yet,  in  fact,  misrepresented  individuals 
and  facts,  and  that  they  regret  these  things  :  if  it  be  volun- 
tarily agreed,  also,  that  the  Union  Societies  above  alluded 


430 


A   HISTORY   OF   THE 


[1828. 


m 


Rights'  be  discontinued  at  the  close  of  the  current  volume, 
which  shall  be  completed  with'  due  respect  to  the  concilia- 
tory and  pacific  design  of  this  arrangement;  then  this 
General  Conference  does  hereby  give  authority  for  the 
restoration  to  their  ministry  or  membership  respectively, 
in  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  of  any  person  or  per- 
sons so  expelled,  as  aforesaid ;  provided  this  arrangement 
shall  be  mutually  assented  to  by  any  individual  or  indivi- 
duals so  expelled,  and  also  by  the  quarterly  meeting  con- 
ference, and  the  minister  or  preacher  having  the  charge 
in  any  circuit  or  station  within  which  any  such  expulsion 
may  have  taken  place;  and  that  no   such  minister   or 
preacher  shall  be   obliged,  under  this   arrangement,   to 
restore   any  such  individual  as  leader  of  any  class  or 
classes,  unless  in  his  own  discretion  he  shall  judge  it 
proper  so  to  do ;  and  provided  also,  that  it  be  further  mu- 
tually agreed  that  no  other  periodical  publication,  to  be 
devoted  to  the  same  controversy,  shall  be  established  on 
either  side  ;  it  being  expressly  understood,  at  the  same 
time,  that  this,  if  agreed  to,  will  be  on  the  ground,  not  of 
any  assumption  of  right  to  require  this,  but  of  mutual  con- 
sent, for  the  restoration  of  peace ;  and  that  no  individual 
will  be  hereby  precluded  from   issuing   any  publication 
which  he  may  judge  proper,  on  his  own  responsibility. 
It  is  further  understood,  that  any  individual  or  individuals 
who  may  have  withdrawn  from  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  on  account  of  any  proceedings  in  relation  to  the 
premises,  may  also  be  restored,  by  mutual  consent,  under 
this  arrangement,  on  the  same  principles  as  above  stated." 

This  decision,  so  far  as  the  General  Conference  was 

concerned,  set  the  question  at  rest,  giving  all  concerned 

distinctly  to  understand  that  such  a  radical  change  in 

our  government  could  not  be  allowed,  and  therefore 

8 


[1828. 

rent  volume, 
the  concilia- 
;  then  this 
(rity  for  the 
respectively, 
>rson  or  per- 
arrangement 
lal  or  indivi- 
leeting  con- 
T  the  charge 
;h  expulsion 
minister   or 
ngement,   to 
ny  class  or 
lall  judge  it 
J  further  mu- 
tation, to  be 
tablished  on 
at  the  same 
round,  not  of 
mutual  con- 
no  individual 
'  publication 
Bsponsibility. 
r  individuals 
St  Episcopal 
slation  to  the 
msent,  under 
bo\e  stated." 

iference  was 
.11  concerned 
il  change  in 
nd  therefore 


1828.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH. 


431 


all  efforts  directed  to  that  end  were  and  would  be  una- 
vailing. 

Some  have  expressed  their  surprise  that  the  General 
Conference  was  so  unwilling  to  yield  to  the  voice  of  the 
people  !  The  answer  is,  that  the  voice  of  the  people 
was  yielded  to,  so  far  as  it  could  be  heard  and  under- 
stood. It  is  believed  that  nine-tenths  of  our  people 
throughout  the  United  States,  could  they  have  been 
heard,  were  decidedly  opposed  to  the  innovations  whic!i 
were  urged.  They  were  not  only  contented  with  the 
present  order  of  things,  but  they  loved  their  institutions, 
venerated  their  ministers,  and  were  astounded  at  the 
bold  manner  in  which  they  were  both  assailed  from  the 
pulpit  and  the  press.  In  resisting,  therefore,  the  pro- 
posed changes,  the  conference  beUeved  it  went  with, 
and  not  against,  the  popular  voice  of  the  Church ;  and 
the  result  has  proved  that  it  was  not  in  error ;  for  it  has 
l)een  fully  sustained  in  its  course  by  the  great  body  of 
preachers  and  people  in  all  the  annual  conferences  and 
throughout  the  entire  Church ;  and  it  has,  moreover, 
had  the  sanction  of  at  least  some  of  the  "Reformers" 
themselves,  who  have  become  convinced  that  they  cal- 
culated on  a  higher  state  of  individual  and  social  perfec- 
tion than  they  have  found  attainable,  and  that  it  is 
much  easier  to  shake  and  uproot  established  institutions 
than  it  is  to  raise  up  and  render  permanent  a  new  order 
of  things— a  truth  which  should  teach  all  revolutionists 
the  necessity  of  caution  and  moderation  in  their  mea- 
sures. 

It  will  be  perceived  that  one  of  the  resolutions  in  the 
above  report  proposed  terms  on  which  the  expelled 
members  might  be  restored  to  their  former  standing  in 
the  Church.     It  is  not  known,  however,  that  aiiv  of 

3' 


482 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1828. 


r 


them  availed  themselves  of  this  privilege  j  but,  on  the 
contrary,  a  very  conoiderable  number,  both  in  Baltimore 
and  other  places,  withdrew  from  the  Church,  and  put 
themselves  under  the  wing  of  "  reform ;"  while  a  few, 
who  still  proved  refractory,  in  Cincinnati,  Lynchburg, 
and  some  other  places,  were  tried  and  expelled.  The 
exact  number  lost  to  the  Church  I  have  not  been  able 
to  ascertain ;  but  by  turning  to  the  Minutes  of  our  con- 
ferences, and  comparing  the  numbers  for  1828  with 
those  for  1829,  I  find  the  increase  of  members  to  be 
29,305,*  and  of  preachers  175 ;  for  1830  the  increase 
of  members  is  28,257,  and  of  preachers  83.  And  as 
this  is  quite  equal  to  the  usual  increase  from  one  year 
to  another,  the  secession  could  not  have  included  a 
great  number  of  either  members  or  preachers.  In  the 
cities  of  New- York,  Philadelphia,  Baltimore,  Pittsburgh, 
and  Cincinnati  were  found  the  greatest  number  of  "Re- 
formers."t    Here  they  organized  churches  and  esta- 

*  This  increase  appears  after  deducting  the  members  in 
the  Canada  conference,  which  were,  in  1827,  8,596.  Had 
these  been  included,  the  entire  increase  would  have  appeared, 
as  it  in  reality  was,  37,900,  and  of  preachers  273.  The  rea- 
son why  these  were  not  included  was,  the  Canada  conference 
had  become  independent. 

t  Though  I  have  earnestly  sought,  from  various  sources, 
to  ascertain  the  exact  number  who  were  expelled  and  who 
seceded  from  the  Church,  as  well  as  the  numbers  now  be- 
longing to  the  "  Methodist  Protestant  Church,"  I  have  not 
been  able  to  obtain  the  information.  If  any  one  will  furnisli 
me  with  this  very  desirable  information,  from  any  authentic 
source,  I  will  most  gladly  avail  myscif  of  it  to  perfect  this 
account  in  a  future  edition.  However,  that  the  reader  may 
perceive  how  far  the  Church  was  affected  in  the  above-men- 
tioned cities  by  the  secession,  I  have  prepared  the  following 
tabular  view  of  the  number  of  white  members  in  each  of 
them  from  1827  to  1831,  inclusive  :— 
8 


[1828. 

J  but,  on  the 
I  in  Baltimore 
irch,  and  put 
while  a  few, 
,  Lynchburg, 
pelled.  The 
not  been  able 
;s  of  our  con- 
»r  1828  with 
embers  to  be 
)  the  increase 
83.  And  as 
om  one  year 
e  included  a 
hers.  In  the 
e,  Pittsburgh, 
imberof  "Re- 
les  and  esta- 
te members  in 
7, 8,596.  Had 
have  appeared, 
273.  The  rea- 
ada  conference 

arious  sources, 
elled  and  who 
mbers  now  be- 
h,"  I  havo  not 
ne  will  furnisli 
any  authentic 
to  perfect  this 
le  reader  may 
he  above-men- 
i  the  following 
ers  in  each  of 


1828.] 


METHODIST   EPISCOPAL   CHURCH. 


488 


Wished  congregations  in  conformity  to  their  improved 
plan  of  procedure :  but  it  is  believed  that  in  all  these 
places  their  influence  has  been  on  the  wane  for  some 
time,  and  that,  while  several  have  returned  to  the 
Church  which  they  had  left,  others  have  become  wea- 
ried and  vexed  with  "reform,"  being  convinced  that 
1827.  1828.  1829.  1830.  1831. 
3,319  3,416  3,473  3^866  4,889 
3,633  3,882  4,440  4,678  4,859 
3,631  3,886  4,119  4,295  5,059 
737  655  676  630  700 

901  915  929        1,171        1,495 


Now-York, 

Philadelphia, 

Baltimore, 

Pittsburgh, 

Cincinnati, 


As  the  colored  members  were  not  much  aflfected  either 
way  by  these  agitations,  I  have  left  them  out  of  the  estimate; 
and  it  will  be  seen  that  there  was  a  gradual  increase  in  all 
the  above  cities  from  1827  to  1831,  the  years  in  which  the 
"  Methodist  Protestants"  were  maturing  their  organization, 
except  Pittsburgh,  and  the  decrease  here  was  only  eighty- 
two  in  1828,  and  forty-six  in  1830.  The  number,  therefore, 
who  left  us,  instead  of  being  from  twenty  to  thirty  thousand, 
as  was  reported  at  the  time,  must  have  been  very  few,  or  the 
revivals  and  admittances  very  considerable  j  and  either  alter- 
native shows  on  which  side  of  the  question  at  issue  the  pub- 
lic mind  preponderated ;  and  if  revivals  of  religion  and  an 
increase  of  membership  may  be  relied  on  as  an  evidence  of 
the  divine  approbation,  we  have  had  ample  testimony  in 
favor  of  our  proceedings  and  general  system  of  operations: 
we  may  therefore,  with  thankfulness,  adore  the  God  of  our 
salvation  for  his  unmerited  goodness  toward  us  as  a  people, 
even  in  the  midst  of  our  manifold  failures  and  infirmities. 

It  is  a  fact  worthy  of  record,  not,  indeed,  as  matter  of  vain 
boasting,  but  of  humble  gratitude  to  the  Author  of  all  good, 
that  "no  weapon"  hitherto  "formed  against  us  has  pros- 
pered"—nor  will  it,  so  long  as  we  cleave  unto  God  with  full 
purpose  of  heart ;  but  "  if  we  forsake  him  he  will  cast  us  ofT 
for  ever."  May  we  then  take  heed  to  our  ways,  that  we 
sin  not  with  our  lips,  nor  charge  God  foolishly  in  any  of  our 
conduct! 

28  8 


4d4 


A    HISTORY   OF    THE 


[1628 


:U  '■< 


If, 
m 


they  calculated  too  highly  on  the  perfection  of  human 
nature  not  to  be  disappointed  in  their  expectations. 

It  seems  right,  therefore,  that  the  reader  may  have 
an  intelligent  view  of  the  whole  matter,  that  he  should 
be  informed  what  their  plans  were,  that  he  may  per- 
ceive the  improvements  with  which  they  designed  to 
perfect  the  sptem  adopted  by  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church.  In  the  month  of  November  of  this  year  the 
"Associated  Methodist  Churches"  held  a  convention  in 
the  city  of  Baltimore,  at  which  a  provisional  govern- 
ment was  formed  until  a  constitution  and  book  of  disci- 
pline could  be  prepared  at  a  future  convention.  This 
convention  assembled  in  the  city  of  Baltimore  on  the 
second  day  of  November,  1830,  and  was  composed  of 
an  equal  number  of  lay  and  clerical  delegates  from 
several  parts  of  the  Union,  representing  thirteen  annual 
conferences,*  and  continued  its  sessions  until  the  twenty- 
third  of  the  same  month.    The  convention  proceeded 

♦  Some  of  these  conferences  must  have  been  very  small, 
for  in  looking  over  the  list  of  delegates  I  find  them  in  the 
follovtring  proportions :— From  Vermont,  two;  Massachu- 
setts, two ;  New-York  and  Canada,  one ;  Genesee,  eight ; 
New-York,  two;  Pennsylvania,  twenty-eight;  Maryland, 
twenty-eight ;  Virginia,  twelve ;  North  Carolina,  six ;  Geor- 
gia, four ;  Alabama,  two ;  Ohio,  sixteen ;  Western  Virginia, 
two ;  in  all,  one  hundred  and  thirteen.  But  as  there  were 
thirty-one  absentees,  the  convention  was  composed  of 
eighty-two. 

From  the  above  the  reader  may  see  in  what  portions  of 
our  country  the  "Reformers"  were  the  most  numerous. 
Among  those  who  composed  this  convention  there  were, 
I  believe,  but  two,  the  Bet.  Meters.  Asa  Shinn  and  George 
Brown,  both  of  the  Pittsburgh  conference,  who  were  travel- 
ing preachers  at  the  time  they  withdrew  from  us  and  joined 
the  "  Reformers."  The  rest  among  the  clerical  delegates 
were  all  local  preachers,  some  of  who.n  had  once  been  in 
3 


[1828 

n  of  human 
stations. 
ir  may  have 
at  he  should 
he  may  per- 
desigiied  to 
Ist  Episcopal 
this  year  the 
lonvention  in 
Dual  govern- 
book  of  disci- 
ntion.  This 
imore  on  the 
composed  of 
legates  from 
rteen  annual 
il  the  twenty- 
on  proceeded 

an  very  small, 
d  them  in  the 
o;  Massachu- 
enesee,  eight; 
it;  Maryland, 
na,  six ;  Geor- 
stem  Virginia, 
as  there  were 
composed   of 

lat  portions  of 
ost  numerous, 
n  there  were, 
m  and  George 
10  were  travel- 
i  us  and  joined 
rical  delegates 
I  once  been  in 


1888.]  METHODIST   EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  436 

to  the  adoption  of  a  «  constitution,"  the  first  article  of 
which  fixed  the  title  of  the  new  "Association"  to  be 
The  Methodist  Protestant  Church,"  and  the  whole 
community  was  divided  into  "districts,"  "circuits"  and 
« stations ;"--the  "districts,"  comprising  the  bounds  of 
an  annual  conference,  to  be  composed  of  an  equal  num- 
ber  of  ordained  itinerant  ministeiB  and  delegates,  elected 
either  from  the  local  preachers  or  lay  members  ;-the 
General  Conference  was  to  consist  of  an  equal  number 
of  ministers  and  laymen,  to  be  elected  by  the  annual 
conferences,  and  must  assemble  every  seventh  year  for 
the  transaction  of  business. 

The  offices  of  bishop  and  presiding  elder  were  abo- 
hshed,  and  both  the  aunual  and  General  Conferences 
were  to  elect  their  presidents  by  ballot  to  preside  over 
their  deliberations ;  and  the  presidents  of  annual  con- 
ferences were  also  to  travel  through  their  districts,  to 
visit  all  the  circuits  and  stations,  and,  as  far  as  practi- 
cable, to  be  present  £tt  quarterly  and  camp  meetings  ;— 
to  ordain,  assisted  by  two  or  more  elders,  such  as  might 
be  duly  recommended ;  to  change  preachers  in  the  in- 
terval of  conference,  provided   their  consent  be   first 
obtained.     The  chief  points,  therefore,  in  which  they 
di/rer  from  us  are,  that  they  have  abolished  episcopacy, 
and  admit  laymen  to  a  participation  of  all  the  legisla- 
tive and  judicial  departments  of  the  government.    Class 
society,  and  quarterly  meetings,  annual  and  General 
Conferences,  and  an  itinerant  ministry,  they  have  pre- 
served.    They  also  hold  fast  the  fundamental  doctrines 
of  our  Church  and  its  moral  discipline.     The  vcibal 

the  itineraiit  ministry,  but  had  located,  and  two  had  been 
expelled.  This  shows  how  feeble  an  impression  had  been 
made  on  tho  trflvelimr  m;»;<.t :_  e X,,     .       ..      "^*'" 

3 


436 


A   HISTORY   OF   THB 


[1828. 


alterations  which  they  have  introduced  into  some  por- 
tions of  the  prayers,  moral  and  prudential  regulations, 
will  not,  it  is  believed,  enhance  their  worth  in  the  esti- 
mation of  any  sober  and  enlightened  mind.  This, 
however,  may  be  more  a  matter  of  taste  than  of  sound 
verbal  criticism,  as  it  is  hardly  to  be  supposed  that  judi- 
cious men  would  alter  "the  form  of  sound  words" 
merely  for  the  sake  of  altering. 

Though  a  separate  community  was  thus  estabhshed, 
it  was  a  considerable  time  before  the  agitations  ceased. 
It  was  but  natural  for  those  who  had  withdrawn  from 
the  Church  to  attempt  a  justification  of  themselves  be- 
fore the  public  by  assigning  reasons  for  their  proceed- 
ings, and  by  an  effort  to  put  their  antagonists  in  the 
wrong.     And  as  they  had  a  periodical  at  their  com- 
mand, writers  were  not  wanting  to  volunteer  their  ser- 
vices in  defense  of  their  measures,  and  in  opposition  to 
what  they  considered  the  objectionable  features  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church.     This  called  for  defense 
on  the  part  of  those  more  immediately  implicated  by 
the  writers  in  "Mutual  Rights."     And  as  Baltimore 
had  been  the  chief  seat  of  the  controversy  from  tlie  be- 
ginning, and  as  it  was  thought  not  advisable  to  make 
the  columns  of  the  Christian  Advocate  and  Journal  a 
medium  for  conducting  the  controversy,  the  brethren  in 
that  city  established  a  weekly  paper,   called  "The 
Itinerant,"  which  was  devoted  especially  to  the  vindi- 
cation of  the  government,  ministers,  and  usages  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  containing,  in  the  mean 
time,  animadversions  upon  the  newly  constituted  govern- 
ment, and  a  replication  to  the  arguments  of  its  advo- 
cates in  its  defense.     Many  very  able  pieces  appeared 
fj.0m  time  to  time  in  "  The  Itinerant,"  in  defense  of  the 
3 


[1828. 

ito  some  por- 
1  regulations, 
h  in  the  esti- 
mind.  This, 
han  of  sound 
)sed  that  judi- 
jound   words" 

m  established, 
nations  ceased, 
thdrawn  from 
hemselves  be- 
their  proceed- 
gonists  in  the 

at  their  com- 
teer  their  ser- 
1  opposition  to 
features  of  the 
ed  for  defense 
implicated  by 

as  Baltimore 
f  from  the  be- 
sable  to  make 
ind  Journal  a 
he  brethren  in 

called  "The 
y  to  the  vindi- 

usages  of  the 
^,  in  the  mean 
tituted  govern- 
its  of  its  advo- 
ieces  appeared 

defense  of  the 


1828.] 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH. 


437 


proceedings  of  the  authorities  of  the  Church  in  the  city 
of  Baltimore,  of  the  General  Conference,  and  those 
annual  conferences  which  had  acted  in  the  premises. 
These  contributed  greatly  to  settle  the  questions  at 
issue  on  a  just  and  firm  basis,  and  to  show  that  these 
things  were  susceptible  of  a  Scriptural  and  rational 
defense. 

But  the  spirit  of  contention,  which  had  long  been 
impatient  of  control,  at  length  became  wearied,  and  the 
combatants  gradually  retired  from  the  field  of  contro- 
versy, the  Itinerant  was  discontinued,  and  the  Christian 
Advocate  and  Journal,  which  had,  indeed,  said  but  little 
on  the  subject,  proposed  a  truce,  which  seemed  to  be 
gladly  accepted  by  the  dissentient  brethren,  and  they 
were  left  to  try  the  strength  of  their  newly  formed  sys- 
tem without  further  molestation  from  theii  old  brethren. 

On  a  review  of  these  things,  we  find  much  to  humble 
us,  and  yet  much  to  excite  our  gratitude.  In  all  strug- 
gles of  this  sort  the  spirits  of  men  are  apt  to  become  less 
or  more  exasperated,  brotherly  love  to  be  diminished, 
and  a  strife  for  the  mastery  too  often  usurps  the  place 
of  a  holy  contention  "  for  the  faith  once  delivered  to  the 
saints."  That  the  present  discussion  partook  more  or 
less  of  these  common  defects,  on  both  sides,  may  be 
granted,  without  yielding  one  iota  of  the  main  princi- 
ples for  which  we  contend.  Indeed,  truth  itself  may 
sometimes  have  cause  to  blush  for  the  imperfect  and 
often  rude  manner  in  which  its  disciples  attempt  to  vin- 
dicate its  injured  rights  ;  while  error  may  be  defended 
by  the  wily  arts  of  its  advocates  with  an  assumed  meek- 
ness and  forbearance  which  may  smooth  over  its  rough 
edges  by  their  ingenious  sophistry  so  eflectually  as  to 
beg  ;ile  ihe  simple  hearted,  until  the  serpent  clasps  them 

3 


438 


A    HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1828. 


ill  its  deceitful  and  relentless  coih.  B'.U  extricate  your- 
self from  its  painful  grasp,  expose  its  serpentine  course, 
and  denounce,  in  just  terms  of  reprobation,  its  delusive 
schemes,  and  it  will  throw  off  its  disguise,  and  pour 
forth,  in  blustering  terms,  its  denunciations  against 
you,  with  a  view  to  blacken  your  character,  and  render 
you  odious  in  the  estimation  of  the  wise  and  good.  It 
will  then  complain  of  that  very  injustice  which  it 
attempted  to  inflict  on  you,  and  will  repel  all  complaints 
of  its  own  unfairness  by  a  repetition  of  its  offensive 
epithets.  Truth,  however,  has  no  need  to  resort  to 
finesse,  to  intrigue,  to  epithets  of  abuse,  in  its  own  de- 
fense. Though  it  can  never  falsify  its  own  principles, 
nor  yield  to  the  demands  of  error,  either  in  complai- 
sance to  its  antagonists  or  to  soften  the  tones  of  honesty 
and  uprightness  with  which  it  utters  its  sentiments,  yet 
it  seeks  not  to  fortify  its  positions  by  a  resort  to  the  con- 
temptible arts  of  sophistry,  nor  to  silence  its  adversaries 
by  a  substitution  of  personal  abuse  for  arguments.  It 
expresses  itself  fearlessly  and  honestly,  without  disguise 
or  apology,  leaving  the  consequences  to  its  sacred 
Author. 

How  far  these  remarks  may  apply  to  those  who  en- 
gaged in  the  piesent  contest  I  pretend  not  to  determine. 
But  whatever  may  have  been  the  defects  in  the  spirit 
and  manner  in  which  the  controversy  was  conducted, 
we  rejoice  that  it  has  so  far  terminated,  and  that  we 
may  now  calmly  review  the  past,  may  apologize  for 
mipcakes,  forgive  injuries,  whether  real  or  imaginary, 
and  exercise  a  mutual  spirit  of  forbearance  toward  each 
other.  For  whatever  imperfections  of  human  nature 
may  have  been  exhibited  on  either  side,  we  have  just 
cause  of  humiliation  ;  and  while  they  teach  us  the  infi- 


[1828. 

ctricate  your- 
jntine  course, 
1,  its  delusive 
se,  and  pour 
Lions  against 
ir,  and  render 
nd  good.  It 
ice  which  it 
ill  complaints 
its  offensive 
I  to  resort  to 
n  its  own  de- 
vn  principles, 
r  in  complai- 
les  of  honesty 
entiments,  yet 
ort  to  the  con- 
its  adversaries 
rguments.  It 
thout  disguise 
to  its  sacred 

those  who  en- 
L  to  determine. 
3  in  the  spirit 
'^as  conducted, 
,  and  that  we 

apologize  for 
or  imaginary, 
;e  toward  each 
luman  nature 

we  have  just 
Lch  us  the  infi' 


898.] 


METHODXrr  ■PIflO«PAL  OHtTRCH. 


43§ 


nite  value  of  the  atoning  blood  to  cover  all  such  aberra- 
tions, they  furnish  lessons  of  mutual  forbearance  and 
forgiveness. 

But  while  this  humbling  view  of  the  subject  deprives 
us  of  all  just  cause  of  hoasting,  we  may,  it  is  thought, 
perceive  much  in  the  asult  which  should  excite  our 
gratitude.  To  the  intelligent  friends  of  our  Church 
organization,  of  our  established  and  long  continued 
usages  and  institutions,  it  gave  an  opportunity  of  exa- 
mitiing  their  foundation,  of  testing  their  soundness  and 
strength,  and  of  defending  them  against  their  assail- 
ants. Having  proved  them  susceptible  of  a  Scriptural 
and  rational  vindication,  we  have  reason  to  believe  that 
they  became  not  only  better  understood,  but  more  highly 
appreciated  and  sincerely  loved.  Experience  and  prac- 
tice having  furnished  us  with  those  weapons  of  defense 
to  which  we  might  otherwise  have  remained  strangers, 
we  have  learned  the  lessons  of  wisdom  from  the  things 
we  have  been  called  to  suffer,  and  an  increased  venera- 
tion for  our  cherished  institutions  has  been  the  benefi- 
cial consequence.  Greater  peace  and  harmony  within 
our  borders  succeeded  to  the  storms  of  agitation  and 
division.  Our  own  Church  organization  and  plans  of 
procedure  have  been  made  to  appear  more  excellent 
frotn  contrasting  them  with  those  substituted  by  the 
■seceding  party ;  and  so  far  as  success  may  be  relied 
upon  as  a  test  of  the  goodness  and  beneficial  tendency 
of  any  system  of  operations,  we  have  no  temptation  to 
forsake  "  the  old  paths"  for  the  purpose  of  following  in 
the  track  of  those  who  have  opened  the  untrodden  way 
of  "  reform,"  or  to  be  shaken  by  the  strong  "  protest" 
they  have  entered  against  our  peculiar  organization  and 
manner  of  conducting  our  affairs. 

8 


440  A   HISTORY   OF   THB  [1828L 

In  narrating  the  facts  in  this  perplexing  case  I  have 
aimed  at  historical  truth.  In  doing  this  I  may  have 
wounded  the  feelings  of  some  who  were  the  more  im- 
mediate actors  in  the  scenes  which  have  passed  before 
us.  This,  however,  was  very  far  from  my  intention. 
I  have,  indeed,  labored  most  assiduously  to  present  the 
fects  in  as  inoffensive  language  as  possible,  consistently 
with  the  demands  of  impartial  history,  and  therefore 
hope  to  escape  the  censure  justly  due  to  those  who  wil- 
fully pervert  the  truth  or  misinterpret  its  language.  Nor 
will  I  claim  for  myself  any  other  apology  for  uninten- 
tional errors  than  fallible  humanity  has  a  right  to  exact 
from  candid  criticism.  And  now  that  the  struggle  is 
over,  may  we  all,  pursuing  our  respective  modes  of  doing 
good,  "  as  far  as  possible,  live  peaceably  with  all  men." 

The  cause  of  missions,  of  education,  and  of  the  Ame- 
rican Colonization  Society,  v;as  duly  considered,  and 
highly  recommended  to  the  approbation  and  support  of 
our  people ;  and  the  reports  and  resolutions  in  reference 
to  these  several  subjects  no  doubt  tended  much  to 
advance  their  respective  claims  upon  the  public  munifi- 
cence. 

The  constitutional  term  of  Nathan  Bangs,  as  editor 
and  general  book  agent,  having  expired,  he  was  elected 
editor  of  the  Christian  Advocate  and  Journal,  and  John 
Emory  was  appointed  to  succeed  him  in  the  general 
editorship  and  agency,  and  Beverly  Waugh  was  elected 
the  assistant  of  Dr.  Emory. 

The  following  provision  was  made  respecting  the 

appointment  of  trustees: — "When  a  new  board  of 

trustees  is  to  be  created,  it  shall  be  done  (except  in 

those  states  and  territories  where  the  statutes  provide 

differently)   by   the  appointment  of  the  preacher  in 
3 


Li82a 

ng  case  I  have 
&  I  may  have 
I  the  more  im- 
'  passed  before 

my  intention. 
'  to  present  the 
lie,  consistently 

and  therefore 
those  who  wil- 
inguage.  Nor 
y  for  uninten- 
L  right  to  exact 
the  struggle  is 
modes  of  doing 
with  all  men." 
id  of  the  Ame- 
onsidered,  and 
and  support  of 
ns  in  reference 
ided  much  to 
public  munifi- 

!angs,  as  editor 
he  was  elected 
rnal,  and  John 
in  the  general 
igh  was  elected 

respecting  the 
new  board  of 
one  (except  in 
tatutes  provide 
le  preacher  in 


1828.] 


METHODIST   EPI8C(H>AL    CHURCH. 


441 


charge,  or  by  the  presiding  elder  ;"~thus  approving 
the  election  of  trustees  according  to  the  laws  of  the  re- 
spective states  and  territories,  and  at  the  same  time 
providing  for  the  manner  in  which  they  shall  be  ap- 
pointed where  no  such  laws  exist. 

The  Rev.  William  Capers  was  elected  as  a  delegate 
to  represent  us  to  the  Wesleyan  Methodist  conference 
in  the  succeeding  month  of  July,  and  he  bore  with  him 
the  following  address: — 

"ADDRESS 

Of  the   General    Conference   of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 

Church,  to  the  Wesleyan  Methodist  Conference. 

"Beloved  Fathers  and  Brethren  : — Having,  by 
the  mercy  of  our  God,  brought  the  present  session  of  our 
General  Conference  near  to  a  close,  we  avail  ourselve? 
of  this  opportunity  to  convey  to  you  our  Christian  saluta- 
tions. Our  beloved  brother,  the  Rev.  William  Capers, 
whom  we  have  elected  as  our  representative  to  your  con- 
ference, will  more  fully  explain  to  you  the  state  of  our 
affairs,  the  strong  affection  we  bear  to  you  as  our  elder 
brethren,  and  our  fervent  desire  to  preserve  with  you  the 
bond  of  peace  and  the  unity  of  the  Spirit. 

"  Our  present  session,  though  laborious,  and  involving 
various  and  important  points  vitally  connected  with  the 
interests  of  our  Church,  and  of  Christianity  generally,  has 
been  marked  with  general  harmony  of  feeling  and  mutual 
good-will ;  and  we  humbly  trust  it  will  tend  to  strengthen 
the  bond  of  union  among  ourselves,  more  fully  to  combine 
our  strength,  to  concentrate  and  harmonize  our  views  and 
affections,  and  to  give  a  new  impulse  to  the  great  work  in 
which  we  are  engaged. 

"  To  stimulate  us  to  diligence  in  this,  most  sacred  of  all 
causes,  the  bright  example  of  your  persevering  efforts  in 
the  cause  of  God  is  placed  before  us.     Deriving  our  doc- 


442  A   HISTORY  OF   THE  [1^8. 

trines  from  the  same  great  fountain  of  truth,  the  Holy 
Scriptures,  and  admitting  the  same  medium  of  interpreta- 
tion, the  venerated  Wesley  and  his  coadjutors,  and,  we 
humbly  hope,  pursuing  the  same  great  objects,  the  present 
and  future  salvation  of  souls,  we  desire  ever  to  cultivate 
with  you  the  closest  bond  of  union  and  Christian  fellow- 
ship. Under  the  influence  of  these  views  and  feehngs, 
we  have  rejoiced  in  your  prosperity,  and  witnessed  with 
unmingled  pleasure  the  extension  of  your  work,  particu- 
larly in  your  missionary  department. 

"With  you,  also,  we  have  our  portion  of  afflictions. 
Through  the  disaffection  of  some,  and  the  honest,  though, 
as  we  think,  mistaken  zeal  of  others,  in  some  parts  of  our 
extended  work,  the  harmony  of  our  people  has  been  dis- 
turbed, and  principles,  to  us  novel  in  their  character,  and 
deleterious  in  their  influence  on  the  excellent  system  we 
have  received  from  our  fathers,  have  been  industriously 
circulated.  Though  we  may  not  flatter  ourselves  that 
these  unhappy  excitements  are  fully  terminated,  yet  we 
presume  to  hope  that  the  decided  and  almost  unanimous 
expression  of  disapprobation  to  such  proceedings  by  this 
General  Conference,  and  among  our  preachers  and  people 
generally,  will  greatly  weaken  the  disaffection,  and  tend 
to  correct  the  errors  of  the  wandering,  as  well  as  to  con- 
firm and  strengthen  the  hands  of  all  who  desire  to  cleave 
to  the  Lord  '  in  one  faith,  one  baptism,  and  one  hope  of 
our  calling.' 

"  Since  our  last  session,  we  have  witnessed,  with  joy 
and  gratitude,  an  unusual  effusion  of  the  Holy  Spirit. 
Revivals  of  religion  have  been  numerous  and  extensive  in 
almost  every  part  of  our  continent.  Upward  of  sixty-nine 
thousand  have  been  added  to  our  Church  during  the  past 
four  years,  and  the  work  is  still  extending.  Stretching 
our  lines  over  so  largo  a  continent,  many  parts  of  our 
work,  particularly  in  the  new  settlements,  require  great 
8 


[18S8. 

ith,  the  Holy 
of  interpreta- 
tors,  and,  we 
ts,  the  present 
sr  to  cultivate 
ristian  fellow- 
and  feelings, 
witnessed  with 
work,  particu- 

of  afflictions, 
lonest,  though, 
le  parts  of  our 
has  been  dis- 
jharacter,  and 
mt  system  we 
I  industriously 
ourselves  that 
nated,  yet  we 
lost  unanimous 
sedings  by  this 
ers  and  people 
tion,  and  tend 
rell  as  to  con- 
esire  to  cleave 
i  one  hope  of 

ssed,  with  joy 
;  Holy  Spirit. 
\d  extensive  in 
d  of  sixty-nine 
luring  the  past 
jj.  Stretching 
y  parts  of  our 
,  require  great 


1828.]  METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH.  443 

personal  sacrifices  to  carry  to  them  the  blessings  of  our 
ministry,  and  much  diligence  and  patient  perseverance  to 
preserve  our  beloved  people  in  the  unity  of  the  faith.  For 
these  great  objects  we  are  not  sufficient — *  our  sufficiency 
is  of  God.'  But  having  devoted  ourselves  exclusively  to 
this  work,  and  confiding  in  the  strength  and  goodness  of 
Him  whose  we  are,  and  whom  we  profess  to  serve  in  the 
fellowship  of  the  gospel,  we  hope  not  to  faint  in  the  day 
of  trial,  but  to  persevere  in  conveying  the  glad  tidings  of 
peace  to  the  destitute  inhabitants  of  our  land,  until  every 
part  of  it  shall  break  forth  into  singing,  and  hail  with  joy 
the  coming  of  the  Lord. 

"  Cheered  with  this  prospect,  we  are  endeavoring  to 
stren^  hen  each  other  in  the  Lord.  And  the  happy  results 
of  our  missionary  labors,  both  among  the  frontier  settle- 
ments of  our  white  population  and  the  Indian  tribes,  parti- 
cularly the  latter,  are  pleasing  indications  of  the  divine 
approbation.  It  docs,  indeed,  seem  as  if  the  set  time  had 
come  to  favor  these  lost  tribes  of  our  wildernesses,  and  to 
bring  them  into  the  fold  of  Christ.  These  natives,  hitherto 
'  peeled  and  scattered,'  in  the  United  States  and  territories, 
as  well  as  in  Upper  Canada,  are  bowing  to  the  yoke  of 
Christ  with  astunishing  alacrity,  and  thus  giving  evidence 
that  his  grace  is  sufficient  to  convert  even  the  heart  of  a 
savage,  and  to  transform  him  to  the  gentleness  of  Christ. 
On  this  subject,  however,  we  need  not  enlarge,  but  refer 
you  to  our  periodical  works — the  extensive  circulation  of 
which  among  our  people  gives  increased  impulse  to  the 
work,  carrying  information,  cheering  and  delightful,  to 
many  thousands,  of  the  efficacy  and  triumph  of  redeeming 
mercy — and  to  our  beloved  brother  and  representative,  the 
bearer  of  this  address,  who  will  more  particularly  tell  you, 
*  face  to  face,'  how  much  we  rejoice  to  be  coworkers  with 
you  in  the  extensive  field  cC  labor,  and  to  witness  such 
evident  tokens  of  the  divine  goodness  to  our  fallen  world. 

8 


444 


A   HISTORY    OF    THE 


[1828. 


1^ 

If 


i; 


"  Recollecting  the  Christian  deportment,  the  ministerial 
gravity  and  dignity,  and,  what  is  more  endearing  to  us, 
the  brotherly  affection  of  your  late  delegate  to  our  confer- 
ence, the  Rev.  Richard  Reece,  and  his  amiable  companion, 
the  Rev.  John  Hannah,  both  of  whom  have  left  a  sweet 
savor  behind  them,  we  take  much  pleasure  in  giving  to 
you  this  renewed  assurance  of  our  unabated  attachment  to 
those  doctrines,  and  that  discipline,  by  which  both  you 
and  we  arc  distinguished ;  to  set  our  seal  to  the  maxim, 
that  'the  Wesleyan  Methodists  are  one  throughout  the 
world;'  and  also  our  desire  that  the  intercourse  between 
us,  by  the  mutual  exchange  of  delegates,  may  be  kept  up 
and  continued ;  and  that,  as  a  means  of  our  edification  and 
comfort,  we  shall  be  happy  to  receive  whomsoever  you 
may  appoint  to  visit  us  at  our  next  session. 

« With  sentiments  of  unfeigned  respect  and  C'uristian 
affection,  we  are,  dear  brethren,  one  with  you  in  the  fel- 
lowship of  Jesus  Christ. 

"  Signed  in  behalf  of  the  General  Conference  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  held  at  Pittsburgh,  (Pa.,) 

May,  1828. 

"  Enoch  George,  President. 

"  Martin  Ruter,  Secretary." 

Thus  closed  the  labors  of  the  General  Conference  of 
18;d8,  and  here  I  close  the  third  volume  of  this  History, 
with  an  expression  of  gratitude  to  the  Author  of  all 
good  for  sparing  my  life  and  health  so  far  to  complete 
my  undertaking. 


[1828. 

the  ministerial 
dearing  to  us, 
>  to  our  confer- 
ble  companion, 
e  left  a  sweet 
e  in  giving  to 
I  attachment  to 
hich  both  you 

to  the  maxim, 
throughout  the 
lourse  between 
lay  be  kept  up 

edification  and 
lomsoever  you 

t  and  Curistian 
you  in  the  fel- 

iference  of  the 
tsburgh,  (Pa.,) 

IE,  President. 

Conference  of 
af  this  History, 

Author  of  all 
far  to  complete 


CONTENTS 

HISTORY  OF  THE  METHODIST  EPISCOPAL  CHURCH. 


Notice  to  the  reader 


Pages 


CHAPTER   III. 


Difference  between  Wesley  and  Whitefield,  p.  8 ;  its  con8ec[uences,  p. 
9 ;  Fletcher  and  his  writings,  p.  10 ;  Wesleyan  missionaries  in  America 
— their  manner  of  preaching,  p.  12 ;  provoke  opposition,  p.  13 ;  how 
defended,  p.  14;  Hopkinsianism,  p.  15;  this  changed  the  points  of  con- 
troversy, p.  16  ;  public  debate  and  its  results,  p.  17 ;  charitable  society  for 
tlie  education  of  pious  young  men,  p.  18  ;  its  address,  p.  19 ;  examined  by 
Mr.  Garrettson,  p.  20 ;  its  opinions  startle  the  community,  p.  21 ;  its 
general  views,  p.  22  ;  its  political  tendency,  p.  23 ;  Connecticut  changes 
its  charter,  p.  26 ;  religious  liberty  obtained,  p.  28  ;  numbers,  p.  30 ;  seces- 
sion of  Richard  Allen^  p.  30;  organizes  a  church,  p.  31 ;  General  Confer- 
ence of  1816— its  members,  p.  33  ;  Bishop  M'Kendree's  address,  p.  35 ; 
delegates  from  British  conference,  affairs  of  Canada,  p.  36 ;  letter  from 
mission  committee  of  London,  p.  37 ;  report  of  General  Conference  on 
Canada  affairs,  p.  41  ;  letter  addressed  to  the  committee  in  London,  p. 
42  ;  report  of  the  episcopal  committee,  and  election  of  Enoch  George  and 
Robert  R.  Roberts  to  the  episcopal  office,  p.  43;  report  of  the  committee 
of  ways  and  means,  p.  43  ;  support  and  improvement  of  the  ministry,  p. 
45 ;  committee  of  safety,  p.  48 ;  on  local  preachers,  p.  51 ;  provision  for 
the  married  bishops,  p.  63;  book  agents,  p.  63;  adjournment  of  Confer- 
ence, p.  54. 

CHAPTER    IV. 

Conferences  and  manner  of  attending  them,  p.  54  ;  Tract  Society  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  p.  55 ;  beneficial  results,  p.  56 ;  general 
work,  p.  57 ;  character  and  death  of  Jesse  Lee,  p.  58 ;  character  and  death 
of  Mr.  Shadford.p.  64;  numbers,  p.  72;  Methooist  Magazine  commenced, 
p.  73;  Asbury  College,  p.  74;  revivals  in  the  Baltimore,  New-York,  and 
New-England  conferences,  p.  75 ;  in  Upper  Canada,  p.  76 ;  camp  meet- 
ings again  in  Kentucky,  p.  76 ;  general  superintendence,  p.  77  ;  its  effects, 
p.  78 ;  Bishop  M'Kendree  labors  and  suffers,  p.  78 ;  locations  and  deatns 
of  preachers  and  number  of  members,  p.  79  ;  diminution  of  colored  mem- 
beis,  and  its  causes,  o.  80;  origin  of  the  Missionary  Society  of  the 
Methodiat  Episcopal  Church,  in  1819,  p.  80 ;  first  constitution,  p.  83 ; 
officers  and  managers,  p.  85;  their  address,  p.  86;  circular,  p.  91 ;  auxi- 
liary societies,  p.  93 ;  Bishop  M'Kendree's  views,  p.  93  ;  Missionary 
Society  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  the  city  of  Philadelphia, 
p.  94 ;  secession  of  colored  members  in  New-York,  p.  95 ;  their  present 
8t.''  and  prospects,  p.  97;  locations  and  deaths  of  preachers,  p.  98; 
n^      era,  p.  99. 

3 


446 


CONTENTS   OF  HISTORY   OF   M.  E.  CHURCH. 


CHAPTER    V. 

Geneial  Conference  of  1820.  Names  and  number  of  delegates,  p.  100 
opening  of  conference  by  Bishop  M'Kendree,  and  address  of  the  bishops, 
p.  102 ;  provision  for  Bishop  M'Kendree,  p.  103 ;  cause  of  education,  p. 
104  ;  report  of  committee  commending  the  establishment  of  seminaries  of 
learning,  p.  103 ;  opposition  to  this  cause,  p.  107  ;  Canada  affairs,  p.  108 ; 
letter  from  London,  p.  1 12 ;  address  to  the  Wesleyan  Methodist  confer- 
ence, p.  113;  its  answer,  p.  115;  resolutions  of  the  British  conference  on 
Canada  affairs,  p.  118;  instructions  from  our  bishops,  p.  126:  to  the 
brethren  in  Lower  Canada,  p.  130;  result  of  these  proceedings,  p.  132; 
improved  edition  of  the  Hymn  Book,  p.  133 ;  Tune  Book,  p.  134  ;  revised, 
p.  139;  building  churches,  p.  140;  new  regulation  respecting  local 
preachers,  p.  141 ;  did  not  work  well,  p.  142 ;  finally  abrogated,  p.  143 ; 
report  on  missions,  p.  143 ;  revised  constitution,  p,  151 ;  rule  for  con- 
ducting appeals,  p.  155 ;  a  branch  of  the  Book  Concern  established  at 
Cincinnati,  p.  156. 

CHAPTER   VI. 

Twelve  conferences  and  two  effective  bishops,  p.  157 ;  state  of  things 
in  Louisiana,  p.  158;  French  mission  unsuccessful,  p.  159;  Indian  mis- 
.sions,  p.  159  ;  number  and  general  description  of  the  condition  and  cha- 
racter of  the  Indians,  p.  160;  Wyandot  Indians,  p.  166;  J(!hn  Steward 
goes  among  them,  p.  166;  his  reception,  p.  167;  effects  of  his  labors,  p. 
108;  speeches  of  chiefs,  p.  169;  transactions  at  the  Ohio  conference,  p. 
172;  secession  in  the  city  of  New-York — its  causes  and  effects,  p.  175; 
numbers  return  to  the  church  they  had  left,  p.  178;  Missioiary  Society 
prospers,  p.  179 ;  its  effects  in  some  portions  of  New-England,  p.  180 ; 
Methodism  in  Bristol,  R.  I.,  p.  182  ;  in  Provincetown,  Mass.,  and  Chili- 
cothe,  Ohio,  p.  183 ;  locations,  deaths,  and  numbers,  p.  183 ;  Wyandot 
mission,  p.  184;  Creek  mission,  p.  185;  camp  meetings  in  South  Carolina 
and  Tennessee,  p.  187;  work  of  Gwl  in  Carter's  Valley  and  Pittsburgh, 
p.  188 ;  in  North  Carolina,  p.  189 ;  in  Alabama,  p.  190 ;  character  and 
death  of  S.  Parker,  p.  192  ;  numbers,  p.  193 ;  Asbury  mission  p.  193  ;  its 
progress  and  disastrous  results,  p.  194 ;  Mohawk  mission,  i^.  198  ;  Che- 
rokee mission,  p.  206;  domestic  missions  in  Upper  CanuJa,  p.  209; 
general  work — in  Brooklyn,  L.  I.,  Amenia,  and  Tolland,  p.  2l  ;  in  Upper 
Canada  district,  p.  212;  in  Smyrna,  Delawarr,  Surry  couniy,  Virginia, 
Scioto,  Ohio,  and  Northumberland  district,  p.  213;  Hudson  R;  er  district, 
New-York,  and  New-Rochelle,  p.  214;  contro-ersial  preach  ng,  p.  215; 
Wesleyan  Seminary,  p.  216;  locations,  deaths,  and  numbcis,  p.  2J6; 
work  of  God  prospers,  p.  217 ;  Missionary  Soi-iety  aided  by  the  labcirs 
of  John  Summerfieid,  p.  218  ;  his  address  to  the  Young  Men's  ylifsionary 
Society,  p.  219 ;  Pot  a  wattomy  mission,  p.  223  ;  Methodism  in  Jackson's 
Purchase,  p.  223  ;  in  Michigan,  p.  224 ;  in  Floric'a,  p.  227  ;  in  C  jmberland 
and  St.  Louis,  p.  229;  aboriginal  missions  prosperous,  p.  2.  );  Bishop 
M'Kendree's  visit  among  the  Wyandots,  p.  231  ;  G.  R.  Jonti's  letter, 
p.  236;  J.  B.  Finley's  travels,  interesting  account  of  Ilonncs,  p.  238; 
mission  in  the  city  of  New- York,  p.  239 ;  on  Long  Island,  p.  240 ;  in 
New-Brunswick,  p.  241;  work  of  God  on  Bp-Uimore  distri*  ;,  p.  242: 
Augusta  College,  p.  242 ;  character  and  death  oi  Dr.  Chandler:  p.  243 ;  ol 
John  Steward,  p.  246;  numbers,  p.  251. 

CHAPTER   VII 

General  Conference  of  1824,  Names  and  nun-her  of  delegat  •'  p.  252: 
delegates  from  the  Wesleyan  Methodist  confisrence,  p.  254 ;  aUdreu  of 

8 


m^'^T' 


URCH. 


lelegates,  p.  100 
5s  of  the  bishops, 
of  education,  p. 
of  seminaries  of 
la  affairs,  p.  108 ; 
lethodist  confer- 
sh  conference  on 
,  p.  126:  to  the 
leedings,  p.  132; 
,  p.  134 ;  revised, 
respecting  local 
brogated,  p.  143 ; 
51 ;  rule  for  con- 
rn  established  at 


;  state  of  things 
150;  Indian  mis- 
ndition  and  cha- 
i;  John  Steward 
of  his  labors,  p. 
10  conference,  p. 
i  eft'ects,  p.  175; 
Hsioi.aiy  Society 
Knglnid,  p.  180 ; 
lass.,  and  Chili- 
».  183;  Wyandot 
n  South  Carolina 
f  and  Pittsburgh, 
);  character  and 
ssion  p.  193  ;  its 
on,  1;.  198  ;  Che- 
DanuJa,  p.  209; 
p.  2 1  ;  in  Upper 
couniy,  Virginia, 
on  R;  er  district, 
reach  ig,  p.  215  ; 
umbets,  p.  2J6; 
?d  b>  the  labdrs 
lien's  iliesionary 
sm  in  Jackson's 
;  in  C  jmberland 
,  p.  2;  0;  Bishop 
I.  Jonti's  letter, 
Honnrs,  p.  238; 
iland,  p.  240;  in 
distrjr;,  p.  242: 
indler  p.  243;  of 


elegat.  •'   p.  252: 
254 :  b.idnu  of 


CONTENTS    OF    HISTORY    OF    M.  E.  CHURCH.  447 

said  conference,  p.  255 ;  of  Mr.  Reece,  p.  259 ;  bishops'  communication  to 
the  conference,  p.  261;  report  of  the  committee  on  lay  delegation,  p.  264  ; 
on  education,  p.  268  ;  Missionary  Society,  p.  270 ;  American  Colonization 
Society,  p.  273  ;  on  slavery,  p.  274 ;  on  the  episcopacy,  p.  276  ;  election 
and  consecration  of  Joshua  Soule  and  Elijah  Hedding  to  the  episcopal 
office,  p.  277 ;  Canada  affairs,  p.  278 ;  report  of  the  committee  on  the 
Itinerancy,  p.  279 ;  address  to  the  Wesleyan  Methodist  conference,  p.  280. 

CHAPTER    VIII. 

n*^^  j"*'*''  mission  visited  by  Bishops  M'Kendree  and  Soule,  p.  285  ; 
Methodism  in  Newburyport,  Gloucester,  and  Piscataquis,  p.  286  ;  general 
work,  p.  287;  Cazenovia  Seminary,  p.  288;  locations  and  deaths  of 
preachers,  p.  288 ;  character  of  Peyton  Anderson,  p.  289 ;  numbers,  p, 
291 ;  Indian  missions— Peter  J<'nes  and  others  brought  to  God,  p.  292  ; 
Methodism  m  New-Orleans,  p.  296 ;  Mobile  and  Pensacola,  p.  298 ;  in 
Tallahassee  and  Early,  p.  299;  in  the  Highlands  and  Hampshire,  p.  300, 
in  Chilicothe,  p.  301  ;  in  Genesee,  Bridgetown,  Newark,  and  Coeymans, 
p.  302  ;  in  Albany,  Champlain,  and  New-Haven  districts,  p.  303  ;  church 
bmlding,  n.  303  ;  revivals  in  Susquehannah  and  Black  River  districts, 
and  in  Baltimore,  p.  304  ;  Mariners'  Church,  New-York,  p.  305  ;  general 
work  prosperoas,  p.  307 ;  death  and  character  of  William  Beauchamp,  p. 
308 ;  death  and  character  of  William  Ross,  p.  314 ;  numbers,  p.  318  ; 
aboriginal  missions  prosper,  p.  318  ;  Methodism  in  Florida,  Alabama,  and 
Upper  Canada,  p.  319  ;  revivals  in  Virginia  and  Maryland,  p.  320  ;  Wil- 
braham  Academy  and  Madison  College,  p.  321;  Christian  Advocate 
Degun,  Sept.  9,  1826,  p.  322 ;  death  and  character  of  John  Summerfield, 
p.  :{24  ;  of  Daniel  Asbury,  p.  329  ;  of  Daniel  Hilt,  p.  330  ;  of  Joseph  Toy, 
p.  331 ;  of  John  P.  Finlev,  p.  332  ;  numbers,  p.  337  ;  origin  of  the  Sunday 
fechool  Union  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  p,  337 ;  address,  p. 
3.38 ;  its  character  and  success,  p.  344 ;  Cherokee  mission,  p.  347  ;  Mis- 
sissaiiga,  p.  349 ;  character  and  death  of  Betwet-n-the-logs,  p.  350  ;  Rich- 
mond mission,  p.  355 ;  Methodism  in  New-York  city,  p.  355  ;  in  New- 
Haven,  p.  356;  Maine  Wesleyan  Seminary,  p.  358;  locations  and  deaths, 
p.  359 ;  character  and  death  of  Philip  Bruce,  p.  360 ;  of  Freeborn  Gar- 
rettson,  p.  364;  of  James  Smith,  p.  371 ;  of  Seth  Crowell,  p.  374;  num. 
bcrs,  p.  378. 

CHAPTER   IX. 

General  Conference  of  1828.  Names  and  number  of  bishops  and  dele- 
gates, p.  378;  address  of  the  bishops,  p.  382;  appeal  of  Joshua  Randell, 
vindication  of  Bishop  Hedding,  Canada  affairs,  p.  388 ;  resolutions  of 
conference  in  reference  to  them,  p.  389 ;  important  principle  explained, 
p.  390 ;  no  precedent  for  a  similar  proceeding  in  the  United  States,  p. 
392  ;  how  an  annual  conference  may  be  disowned,  p.  393  ;  precedents  for 
ordaining  a  bishop  for  Canada,  p.  395 ;  historical  sketch  of  the  "  Reform- 
ers, p.  396 ;  Dr.  Bond's  Appeal,  p.  402  ;  Defence  of  our  Fathers,  p.  406  ; 
trials  in  Baltimore,  p.  407;  similar  proceedings  in  other  places,  p.  411; 
mistake  corrected,  p.  412;  the  "Reformers"  organize  and  memorialize 
the  General  Conference,  p.  413  ;  report  of  the  conference  on  said  memo- 
riii,  p.  413 ;  our  people  unfavorable  to  "  reform,"  p.  431  ;  effects  of  the 
8ece88ion--increaso  of  membership,  p.  432  ;  proceedings  of  "  Reformers," 
p  434 ;  The  Methodist  Protestart  rhurch"  formed— its  character,  r, 
435 ;  agitations  continue,  p.  436;  (ir.-ily  cease,  p.  4,37;  review  of  the 
Whole  affair,  p.  437 ;  cause  of  missions,  education,  and  colonization ; 
election  of  book  agents  and  editors,  and  provision  for  the  appointTTt  of 
IrusteeB,  p.  440 ;  address  to  the  Wesleyan  Rf  sthodist  conferenc;;,  i\  ti\ ; 
cloie  of  the  volume,  p.  444, 


miSr^ 


